Performance aspects of mains connected small-scale wind turbines

Small-scale wind turbines are seen as potentially playing an important part in the future UK electricity generation mix. As such it is important that the necessary turbine and generator systems are well matched in order to maximise power output and energy capture. A turbulent wind model is described that is suitable for use with small-scale wind turbines. The model is used along with models of the turbine, generator and power conversion system to study potential problems that can exist with incorrect turbine design. The wind model is verified by comparison with measured data while the generator and power converter model are verified by laboratory test. A small 2.5 kW, `H´ bladed vertical axis wind turbine is then studied to examine the effect that different blade sections may have in turbulent winds. A symmetrical blade section is seen to cause potential stall problems while these are avoided by the use of a cambered blade section