Connecting wind turbines to the public power grid is not as simple as it may seem. Manufacturers face the challenge of not only testing the functionality of new turbines but also ensuring that they comply with limit values for electrical properties specified in connection rules. Dynamic events such as short circuits and frequency fluctuations also need to be taken into account. Manufacturers must go through a series of tests and certification procedures before receiving their unit certificate, as power grids are highly complex systems that require each turbine to help maintain stability.
To address the challenges of testing large offshore wind turbines, researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy Systems IWES have developed a mobile test platform known as Mobil-Grid-CoP. This platform enables realistic tests to be performed at full load on offshore wind turbines, allowing manufacturers to validate and certify turbines more efficiently. The technology supports the transformation towards using more renewable energy sources by ensuring that turbines meet the necessary requirements before being connected to the grid.
The mobile test bench developed by Fraunhofer IWES is capable of testing wind turbines with outputs of up to 28 megavolt-amperes (MVA). This is particularly important for large offshore turbines, which are becoming more prevalent due to the growth of offshore wind farms. The test bench is designed to simulate the electrical behavior of the power grid to the test object, allowing properties such as frequency changes, voltage fluctuations, and grid faults to be examined in real time. Turbines must respond within milliseconds to events like short circuits and drops in voltage to support the grid with reactive current.
The Mobil-Grid-CoP project offers numerous benefits to the wind energy sector. Manufacturers can conduct robust and detailed tests on their prototypes, reducing the risk of reworking turbines before commissioning. This allows for faster certification and commissioning processes, as well as the ability to carry out upgrades or modernization measures with ease. The flexibility of the test bench also allows for future compatibility with potential changes in connection rules, preparing manufacturers for the evolving landscape of renewable energy.
By providing a technology platform for testing wind turbines, Fraunhofer IWES is playing a key role in accelerating the transition of energy grids to renewable sources. The development of Mobil-Grid-CoP signifies a shift towards more efficient and effective certification processes for wind turbines, ultimately contributing to the sustainable growth of renewable energy. Through continued research and innovation, the wind energy sector can overcome challenges and embrace the future of clean energy production.
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