Neutral current compensation techniques in autonomous wind energy sources

Abstract The problem of neutral current compensation has to be addressed in Wind Energy integrated weak microgrids. This study analyses two types of techniques possible for implementation of neutral current compensation by drawing a comparative research of their application on the same wind energy conversion system. The hybrid microgrid considered in the study comprises a synchronous diesel generator and an inverter-based wind generator. The results and analysis are conducted by time-domain simulations using MATLAB/Simulink software. The use of electronic power converters that also act as an active neutral current compensator or a zig-zag transformer connected with the load mitigates the problem of neutral current compensation to a large extent. The voltage unbalance factor is also significantly reduced due to neutral current compensation and power quality is enhanced. The results provide the actual operational limits possible under the set of given constraints