Comparing technical connection requirements for large wind power plants

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative study of the gird code regulations stipulated by international transmission system operators (TSOs) for large wind power plants. A brief overview of the current global wind power capacity is first presented, followed by comparing the most common regulations that are included in majority of grid codes, namely low and high voltage ride-through, active and reactive power responses during and after faults, extended range of frequency variations, active power control (frequency regulation), and reactive power control (voltage regulation). This paper also presents a discussion on the global harmonization of grid codes as well as future trends of the regulations. Finally, the ability of different wind generator technologies to comply with the international grid code requirements is investigated. This study assists TSOs to establish their connection requirements for wind power plants or to compare their existing regulations with other countries. This work also enables wind turbine manufacturers to obtain a more precise understanding from the latest international regulations.