Voltage control of a self-excited induction generator using a variable reactor

This paper discusses voltage control techniques for a self-excited induction generator, enabling constant voltage generation to wind speed variation across a wide range. Generated voltage in self-excited induction generators is dependent on the speed of rotation, which has meant that they could only be operated within a relatively narrow wind speed range. A leading-phase current capacitor can be used together with the variable reactor proposed in this paper to control reactive power input to a generator. The new voltage control system expands the wind speed range within which power generation is possible to about three times its present range. © 2009 The Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan.