Wind turbines in weak grids - constraints and solutions (original) (raw)

Cost efficient utilisation of the wind energy resource requires wind farms to be located at areas with good wind resources. Such areas are often in proximity to a relatively weak grid that may represent technical constraints for exploiting the wind resources. Hence, aiming for cost efficient utilisation of wind energy resources it is a challenge to find ways to overcome the technical constraints, i.e. basically issues related to thermal capacity, voltage quality and stability. 58 56 55 54 57 1 5 3 ABSTRACT The development of IEC 61400-21 provides firm basis for assessment of the impact of wind turbines on voltage quality. This makes previously used simplified rules unnecessary, and opens for increased utilisation of wind energy in weak grids. Assessment of thermal capacity and voltage stability constraints call for additional analyses and innovative solutions. These are pinpointed by examples enabling cost-effective means to allow increased penetration of wind power in weak grids.