Offshore Wind Power Generation Technologies

This paper provides an overview of the current state of the technology of offshore wind-based power generation and the technological challenges with emphasis on the electrical parts. First, a brief review of the core control functions, their correlation with operational behavior, and the grid-supporting capability of the machine during normal operation as well as during contingency situations are provided. This is followed by the discussion of basic considerations in wind farm collector design, including topology, grounding options, and outlay of the offshore substation. Then, issues related to offshore turbine foundation and typical dimensions of the offshore substation platform are discussed. The platform is designed to accommodate the main and grounding transformers, the switch gear, and other assorted accessories. Next, options for the transmission link from the offshore plant to the grid onshore are reviewed. Finally, a discussion of issues related to grid integration together with currently applicable special grid code requirements concludes the paper.