Power control of an autonomous wind energy conversion system based on a permanent magnet synchronous generator with integrated pumping storage

Wind energy plays a crucial role as a renewable source for electricity generation, especially in remote or isolated regions without access to the main power grid. The intermittent characteristics of wind energy make it essential to incorporate energy storage solutions to guarantee a consistent power supply. This study introduces the design, modeling, and control mechanisms of a self-sufficient wind energy conversion system (WECS) that utilizes a Permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) in conjunction with a Water pumping storage station (WPS). The system employs Optimal torque control (OTC) to maximize power extraction from the wind turbine, achieving a peak power coefficient (Cp) of 0.43. A vector control strategy is applied to the PMSG, maintaining the DC bus voltage at a regulated 465 V for stable system operation. The integrated WPS operates in both motor and generator modes, depending on the excess or shortfall of generated wind energy relative to load demand. In generator mode, the WPS supplements power when wind speeds are insufficient, while in motor mode, it stores excess energy by pumping water to an upper reservoir. Simulation results, conducted in MATLAB/Simulink, show that the system efficiently tracks maximum power points and regulates key parameters. For instance, the PMSG successfully maintains the reference quadrature current, achieving optimal torque and power output. The system's response under varying wind speeds, with an average wind speed of 8 m/s, demonstrates that the generator speed closely follows turbine speed without a gearbox, leading to efficient power conversion. The results confirm the flexibility and robustness of the control strategies, ensuring continuous power delivery to the load. This makes the system a feasible solution for isolated, off-grid applications, contributing to advancements in renewable energy technologies and autonomous power generation systems.