Investigation of SSR in Practical DFIG-Based Wind Farms Connected to a Series-Compensated Power System

Subsynchronous resonance (SSR) was observed in wind farms located in North China. These wind farms prevailingly consist of doubly-fed induction generators (DFIGs) and are connected to series-compensated transmission lines. The observed resonant frequency is about 6 ~ 8 Hz, which is much lower than that of the reported SSR occurred in Texas. The frequency varies during the occurrence and this phenomenon is observed for the first time. The output power is usually within a certain range, when SSR occurs. Based on the practical system, an equivalent simulation system has been established, in which wind farms are modeled as many identical low rating DFIGs. Then, the SSR event is reproduced by simulations. Analysis results indicate that SSR happens even when the equivalent transmission system compensation level seen from wind farms is only 6.67%. Eigenvalue analysis shows that this phenomenon is an electrical resonance, and could be affected considerably by wind speed, number and control of DFIGs. The number of in-service DFIGs has a nonlinear impact on the damping of SSR. An equivalent electric circuit is deduced to intuitively explain why SSR happens and how the above factors affect it. Considering its features, this phenomenon is recognized as DFIG control participated induction generator effect.