Power electronic converter for wind power plant

During the last few years, power electronics have undergone a fast evolution, which is mainly due to two factors. The first one is the development of fast semiconductor switches that are capable of switching quickly and handling high current/voltage. The second factor is the introduction of real-time computer controllers that can implement advanced and complex control algorithms. These factors together have led to the development of cost-effective and grid-friendly converters. It is expected that current developments in gearless energy transmission with power-electronic grid interface will lead to a new generation of quiet, efficient, and economical wind turbines of size more than 7 MW. In this paper, most common topologies are selected and discussed in respect to advantages and drawbacks along with current and new trends in power-electronic technology for the integration of renewable energy sources.