An optimization framework for load and power distribution in wind farms

The aim of this paper is to develop a controller for wind farms to optimize the load and power distribution. In this regard, the farm controller calculates the power reference signals for individual wind turbine controllers such that the sum of the power references tracks the power demanded by a system operator. Moreover, the reference signals are determined to reduce the load acting on wind turbines at low frequencies. Therefore, a trade-off is made for load and power control, which is formulated as an optimization problem. Afterwards, the optimization problem for the wind farm modeled as a bilinear control system is solved using an approximation method. ► A centralized optimal controller has been developed for wind farms. ► The controller is based on the information of a spatial discrete wind flow model. ► It calculates and sends power reference signals to each wind turbine controller. ► The reference signals are obtained considering the trade-off between load and power. ► Extracting less power from upwind turbines results in more power production in downwind turbines.