Simulation of Variable Speed Wind Turbines based on Open-Source Solutions: application to Bachelor and Master Degrees

TL;DR

This paper presents open-source simulation models for variable speed wind turbines to enhance renewable energy education at undergraduate and graduate levels, including control strategies and software comparisons.

Contribution

It introduces accessible, open-source virtual experiments for wind turbine simulation, including control and mechanical models, for educational purposes.

Findings

Models available in Scilab-Xcos for educational use

Comparison of open-source and commercial software

Extensive simulation results included

Abstract

This paper describes variable speed wind turbine (Types 3 and 4, IEC 61400-27-1) simulations based on an open-source solution to be applied to Bachelor and Master Degrees. It is an attempt to improve the education quality of such sustainable energy by giving an open-source experimental environment for both undergraduate and graduate students. Indeed, among the renewable sources, wind energy is currently becoming essential in most power systems. The simulations include both one-mass and two-mass mechanical models, as well as pitch angle control. A general overview of the structure, control, and operation of the variable speed wind turbine is provided by these easy-to-use interactive virtual experiments. In addition, a comparison between commercial and open-source software packages is described and discussed in detail. Examples and extensive results are also included in the paper. The models are available in Scilab-Xcos file exchange for power system education and researcher communities.