Generators for Wind Energy Conversion Systems: State of the Art and Coming Attractions

Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS) have become a focal point in the research of renewable energy sources. This paper provides then a comparative study of past and present generator technologies used in WECS. This study is based on an exhaustive review of the state of the art and on an effective comparison of the performances of the four main topologies that are permanent magnet generators, synchronous generators, induction generators and doubly-fed induction generators. The different generator-WECS schemes are compared on the basis of topology, cost, efficiency, power consumption and control complexity. Moreover, attempts are made to highlight future issues so as to index some emerging solutions.