TSR-Based optimization using auxiliary motor in Tidal Energy Conversion System: An experimental study

Abstract

The fluctuating nature of renewable energy is one of the factors that reduces its ability to compete with traditional forms of power generation. In the context of ocean current energy, tidal oscillations are the primary reason for the average power generation being significantly lower than the designed value. Increasing energy production through optimization is necessary for ocean current energy to compete successfully in the market. This experimental study is intended to increase electrical power production through electromechanical engineering with tip speed ratio (TSR) control using auxiliary motors, and adapts the Motor Generator Pair (MGP) approach, where the generator and motor are connected in series. A physical model of a Tidal Energy Conversion System (TECS) was developed. The system consists of a turbine simulator in the form of an AC motor with separate torque and speed controls, torque sensors, a hydraulic transmission system, and auxiliary motors. With this system, a typical tidal turbine profile was built and simulated TSR-based optimization control. The results of this optimization control show that power production can be increased through optimal tip-speed ratio control.