Maximum power point tracking algorithms for wind power generation system: Review, comparison and analysis

Abstract

Wind energy is one of the most important clean energies and the variable speed constant frequency technology is widely used in wind energy conversion systems. Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is essential for a variable speed constant frequency wind power generation system. Concerning the current research on the MPPT algorithm, this paper studies the principle, characteristics, and reported improvement strategies of principal algorithms. Through the comparison of simulation results for selected control algorithms, the improved optimal torque control algorithm has been found to be the best MPPT algorithm for wind power generation systems because of its simplicity and efficiency. On this basis, further corresponding simulation runs are carried out to analyze the effect of the wind speed fluctuation characteristics on the systematic dynamic performance and power generation efficiency. The results show that the average wind speed, wind fluctuation frequency, and wind fluctuation amplitude can affect the performance of system operation and the efficiency of wind energy capture in different degrees, which has a great practical significance for the research of MPPT control strategy.