Impacts of wind turbine inertia on power transmission systems

Wind turbine generators (WTGs), particularly Type III Doubly-fed Induction Generators (DFIGs) and Type IV Full Converter Wind Generators have become increasingly dominant in modern power systems. As a result of high growth in WTG and its inherent characteristics, power system inertia has now decreased which is generally provided by traditional synchronous generators. This paper provides insight into evaluating power system vulnerability due to declining system inertia from the growth of WTGs. Major factors related to transient frequency response have been identified and critically analyzed in this study. Findings from this paper can be used to identify and manage power system frequency response with better competency. This can also provide a reference for Independent System Operators (ISOs) to determine the risk of under frequency load shedding (UFLS) and consequently to improve network reliability.