Blackstart of DFIG-based Windfarm

Abstract

Increased penetration of DFIG-based windfarms demand their use not only in normal operating conditions but also in restorative conditions, if wind is forecasted to be available. This paper explores the possibility of starting DFIG-based windfarms in preparation of network restoration. Analysis of DFIG starting with the help of a diesel generator set is provided. The windfarm substation is assumed to be composed of a diesel gen-set, synchronous condenser and a dump load. Pitch control, different from the one used during high wind speeds, is modeled and incorporated in this scheme to control speed of rotor during switching on of RSC and stator resynchronisation to the grid. Results, from simulation in MATLAB/SIMULINK, show successful starting of DFIG windfarm by use of a standby diesel generator set. Also, the speed of rotor is controlled to achieve the required speed at any stage of the starting process.