Wind Power Plant Frequency Control via Dynamic Power References
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wind turbine generators contribute to grid instability due to unpredictable wind power fluctuations, as they typically do not participate in primary frequency control and can only operate at nominal load, leading to uncontrolled power production and consumption imbalances, which affect grid frequency stability.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating wind power plants that involves monitoring grid frequency and adjusting power output references for wind turbine generators based on detected high or low frequency events, using a combination of minimum and maximum power references to limit fluctuations and support grid stability, with a power reserve and threshold components to manage frequency deviations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If wind turbine generators operate at optimal working point or nominal load to maximize power production, then energy utilization is improved, but grid frequency stability deteriorates due to uncontrolled power fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The wind turbine generator transitions from static optimal operating point to dynamic operation where the working point can be adjusted in real-time. The control system dynamically modifies the power reference based on frequency deviations, allowing the turbine to operate at optimal efficiency during normal conditions and adjust when grid stability requires intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters of the wind turbine generator by introducing frequency-based power reference adjustments. When frequency deviates from nominal value, the power reference is modified from the optimal working point reference, changing the operational parameters to prioritize grid stability while minimizing impact on energy production.
2Loss of energy
If wind turbine generators do not participate in primary control to maintain optimal operation, then energy efficiency is improved, but grid frequency control capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The wind turbine generator applies partial action in frequency control by not continuously adjusting power output, but only when frequency deviations exceed thresholds. The control system calculates a modified power reference that applies corrections only when needed, rather than continuously, thus maintaining energy efficiency while providing frequency control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements feedback control where the actual frequency measurement is continuously compared with the nominal frequency. This feedback loop enables the wind turbine to detect frequency deviations and automatically adjust its power output accordingly, providing frequency control capability while maintaining optimal operation during normal conditions.
3Reliability
If wind power reference is adjusted to support grid frequency, then grid stability is improved, but power production fluctuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system prepares for frequency support by establishing a baseline power reference from the optimal working point calculation. This pre-calculated reference serves as a cushion that can be adjusted in either direction (increase or decrease) depending on frequency conditions, allowing smooth transitions that minimize power production fluctuations while supporting grid stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a wind power plant, with at least one wind turbine generator connected to an electrical grid is provided. The method includes monitoring a frequency parameter and comparing it with a frequency set point, as to select a low or high frequency event and determining a power reference to the a least one wind turbine generator, based on the frequency parameter. In case a high frequency event is detected, the power reference is determined as a minimum of a selection of at least a first and a second minimum power reference. And in case a low frequency event is detected, the power reference is determined as a maximum of a selection of at least a first and a second maximum power reference, dispatching the power reference to the at least one wind turbine generator.