Wind Power Plant Control for Grid Frequency Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wind power plants face challenges in controlling power output due to the unpredictable nature of wind, making it difficult to match power demand and requiring supplementary diesel generators, which are costly and environmentally unfriendly.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines wind speed and direction to set an upper limit power output, allowing for controlled power injection into the grid, mimicking the inertia response of synchronous generators, and creating a power buffer to stabilize grid frequency and reduce flicker.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If wind power plants operate at nominal power capacity, then power output is maximized, but grid stability cannot be maintained due to unpredictable wind variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power control by continuously adjusting the power output of wind turbines based on real-time wind speed measurements and grid demands. The system transitions from static nominal power operation to dynamic adaptive control, where power output is modulated within a range (e.g., 0-100% of nominal power) to match actual wind conditions and grid requirements, thereby maintaining grid stability while maximizing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where wind speed sensors continuously monitor actual wind conditions and feed this information to the control system. The control system compares actual wind speeds with target wind speeds and adjusts turbine power output accordingly. This closed-loop feedback control enables the system to respond to wind variations and maintain reliable power delivery while optimizing productivity.
2Reliability
If diesel generators are used to stabilize grid frequency, then grid stability is improved, but operational costs increase and environmental impact worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables wind power plants to self-regulate and provide grid stability services without requiring external diesel generators. By implementing advanced control systems that can rapidly adjust power output in response to grid frequency deviations, the wind farm becomes self-sufficient in providing stability services. The system uses its own wind resources and control capabilities to maintain grid frequency, eliminating the need for supplementary diesel generation and reducing operational costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the wind power plant serve multiple functions: it not only generates electricity but also provides grid frequency stabilization and power buffer services. The control system is designed to handle both power generation and grid stability tasks, allowing the same infrastructure to perform multiple functions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate diesel generators, reducing operational costs and environmental impact while maintaining grid reliability.
3Reliability
If wind power output is curtailed to create a power buffer, then grid stability is improved, but power delivery to grid is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by creating a power buffer in advance during periods of high wind availability. The control system stores excess energy in the power buffer before grid stability issues arise. When grid stability problems occur or power demand increases, the stored energy in the buffer is rapidly deployed to maintain stability. This advance preparation allows the system to maintain reliability without permanently reducing power delivery, as the buffer can be replenished when wind conditions are favorable.
Data Source
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AI summary
It is presented a method for controlling the instantaneous power output from a wind power plant. Wind speed and wind directions are determined, wherein an upper limit power output for the specific wind speed and wind direction is determined from a previously measured power output value at the same wind speed and wind direction, and wherein the power output of the wind power plant is controlled based on the determined upper limit power output. A wind power plant is also presented.