A Wind/Diesel System with Variable Speed Flywheel Storage

The economic application of autonomous wind/diesel generating systems in remote areas requires high wind power penetration. Energy storage is required to enable system operation for the maximum possible time with the diesel engine stopped. A 45 kW wind/diesel system with an energy store consisting of a variable speed flywheel and a power electronic drive has been implemented. The integration of a high percentage of wind power into a weak electrical network, and the quality and stability of the electrical supply achieved, are discussed. Results of operating the prototype system in all modes have demonstrated the feasibility of the approach, and further design improvements to the energy store and the dynamic controller are proposed.