Powercorp have developed a number of technologies to enable better utilization of wind plant (greater than 90% wind penetration) into Wind Diesel systems. Traditionally wind power has contributed small amounts of power (roughly 20%-30%) to wind diesel systems with little or no adverse effect. It is when the level of wind power contribution increases that the power fluctuation generated by the wind plant causes unacceptable instability.

Battery systems and controls have been largely unsuccessful in solving the problem. It was not until Powercorp began its intense research work at the Denham test site that the real nature of the problem was uncovered.

Short term power fluctuations (up to 80% of rated power loss over 2 to 3 sec and recovery to full power for example) were recognized as the cause of instability. By solving these problems, Powercorp have seen average wind penetration rates of greater than 90%. Powercorp began with the Dynamic Grid Interface and inverter system designed to very rapidly sink energy into discretionary loads such as boilers for space heating. The secret here was the high speed control which differentiates the technology from Load Dump systems. The progression was to develop the Low Load Diesel system from which long term prime power energy support could be drawn.

The ultimate solution for frequency and voltage stability and grid stabilization is to use the PowerStore. The PowerStore is a flywheel based energy storage system that can sink and source up to 1MW within 5 milliseconds. The ability of the PowerStore to sink or source kW's and kVar's allows the instant gusts and lulls in the wind to be absorbed and covered to maintain grid stability, while also offering some fault ride through capabilities.

Below is a map of Wind Diesel projects utilizing Powercorp technology. In the sub menu under the Wind Diesel link on the right side of the page, you will find information on each of the high penetration wind diesel systems. For the three systems using the PowerStore (Flores/Graciosa/Coral Bay) please also see the PowerStore section.