Power Maximization Using Finite-Control-Set Model Predictive Control Strategy for Wind Turbine Systems

This study aims to present a cascade-free finite-control-set model predictive control (MPC) strategy for machine-side converter as well as grid-side converter of a large-scale wind turbine system (WTS). The proposed cascade-free MPC is applied to a direct drive (DD) permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) to increase its energy output. To do this, a hybrid maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method, which is the combination of both the optimum torque MPPT method as well as the tip speed ratio MPPT method, is implemented in the proposed MPC to capture maximum power from the available wind. This proposed MPC controls electromagnetic variables and electrical variables in the same control structure, thus increasing the dynamic responses of the system. Similarly, the active and reactive power control presented in this study is done using the MPC by decoupling the grid currents during the current control. Finally, the control strategy proposed in this study demonstrates its applicability through a numerical example of a DD PMSG-based WTS with power rating, and demonstrates its superiority compared to existing control methods.