Speed sensorless maximum power point tracking technique for SEIG-based wind energy conversion system feeding induction motor pump

This paper proposes a hill-climbing maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm for a stand-alone self-excited induction generator (SEIG)-based wind energy conversion system (WECS) feeding an Induction Motor (IM) pump. The proposition involves a single voltage source converter (VSC) for power conditioning and MPPT. Secondly, the proposed MPPT algorithm is one of its kind, employing a feed-forward hill-climbing algorithm with the operating frequency of the VSC as a control variable, thus improving the overall system stability. In addition, the algorithm uses only current and voltage sensors, making it speed sensorless and comprehensive. Besides effective MPPT, the constant flux operation of the SEIG and the IM pump are ensured for the entire operating range. The effective operation and control of the proposed algorithm is successfully demonstrated against wind velocity and load variations using simulation and experimental results. The proposition forms robust, low-complex and economic solution for MPPT of WECS for deployment in remotely located stand-alone applications.