Reactive power management of a grid connected SCIG using STATCOM

Wind energy is a significant and promising form of renewable energy. But the main problem associated with grid connection of wind power is its reactive power demand. Squirrel cage induction generators (SCIG) need reactive power for magnetization, which is taken from the grid. With the increase in wind speed, amount of real power generation and hence reactive power demand from source also varies. In this work, STATCOM helps to meet the reactive power needs of induction generator. STATCOM controlled with Instantaneous Reactive Power Theory [IRPT] control algorithm is used for the reactive power management of grid connected SCIG. System performance is studied by means of simulation using MATLAB/Simulink.