Integration of Switched Reluctance Generator in a Wind Energy Conversion System: An Overview of the State of the Art and Challenges

Abstract

This paper presents a technical overview for Switched Reluctance Generators (SRG) in Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) applications. Several topics are discussed, such as the main structures and topologies for SRG converters in WECS, and the optimization control methods to improve the operational efficiency of SRGs in wind power generation systems. A comprehensive overview including the main characteristics of each SRG converter topology and control techniques were discussed. The analysis presented can also serve as a foundation for more advanced versions of SRG control techniques, providing a necessary basis to spur more and, above all, motivate the younger researchers to study magnetless electric machines, and pave the way for higher growth of wind generators based on SRGs.