Firefly algorithm based-pitch angle control of a tidal stream generator for power limitation mode

This paper deals with the modeling and control of a Tidal Stream Generator (TSG) for marine renewable energy. The Power Take Off system consists of a Tidal Stream Turbine coupled to a Doubly Fed Induction Generator with a 1.5 MW power. At any tidal site, there is a variation in the tidal current speed with the occurring of maximum velocities. This means that the TSG system needs to be controlled in order to limit the generated power and shedding mechanical load at high current speeds. For this purpose, a Proportional Integral (PI) controller for the blade pitch angle is investigated. A firefly algorithm based-metaheuristic theory is used to tune the gains of the PI. Simulation results show the performance of the implemented control strategy by optimizing the generated power in case of strong flow speeds.