Wind turbine effect on the voltage profile of distribution networks

The operation of wind turbine, in the distribution networks may affect the power quality offered to the consumers. One of the most important considerations is the effect on the voltage profile, i.e. the induced slow voltage variations, which are the subject of this paper. Two alternative approaches are presented for their evaluation. The first. adopted by many utility guides and recommendations, is deterministic, seeking to ensure that the voltage deviations always remain within certain limits. The other recognises the statistical nature of the voltage variations and conforms to latest European Norm, EN 50160. Rather than assessing the maximum deviations that can possibly appear, the probability distribution of the voltage is calculated and then the conformity to the standards is assessed. In applying the statistical method, either time series. or directly probability distributions can be used. As a study case, the methods are applied to an existing MV distribution feeder, where significant wind power is installed. Measurement data are provided for the same feeder. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.