An Intelligent Fractional-Order Backstepping Control Algorithm for Multi-Machine Wind Energy Conversion Systems

The increasing demand for clean, reliable, and sustainable energy has intensified the need for advanced control strategies in modern wind energy conversion systems. Although conventional backstepping control (BC) offers strong stability and robustness, its performance may deteriorate under parameter uncertainties and dynamic operating conditions, leading to power fluctuations and reduced energy quality. To overcome these challenges, this study proposes an intelligent fuzzy fractional-order BC (FFOBC) strategy for multi-machine wind energy systems. By integrating fuzzy logic with fractional-order calculus into the classical BC framework, the proposed approach enhances adaptability, dynamic response, and robustness against system disturbances and nonlinearities. The controller is implemented at the machine-side inverter and validated in MATLAB/Simulink under varying wind and load conditions. Comparative results demonstrate that the proposed FFOBC significantly outperforms conventional sliding mode control in terms of overshoot reduction, steady-state accuracy, response smoothness, and total harmonic distortion minimization. Furthermore, the proposed strategy improves energy conversion efficiency, reduces mechanical and electrical stress, and ensures stable power injection into the grid. These findings highlight the potential of the proposed intelligent control framework to support sustainable, resilient, and high-quality wind energy integration in future smart power systems.