Small wind turbine communication system implementation

This paper presents the research and development of a communication system that allows the information exchange between the nacelle and the tower base reducing cabling costs and complexity. The proposed infrastructure allows data acquisition and system supervision of distinct wind turbines/generators and its electrical conversion systems according to the IEC 61400-25 standard. The system implementation uses an Ethernet network allowing Digital Signal Controllers and an Embedded PC to share information via a TCP/IP based protocol. The Embedded PC also serves as outstation to supply process data to a WPP Supervisory and Data Acquisition/Energy Management System (SCADA/EMS). The whole implementation was tested in a small wind turbine prototype. Results associated with this prototype are described. The prototype will be used as basis to disseminate standardized technology to local manufacturers.