Author(s): Martin Geske; Piotr Sadowski; Joaquin Moelck; Kai Rothenhagen; Aurelie Bocquel; Michael Bayer

Linked Author(s):

Keywords: Hydropower; Pumped storage; Variable speed drive; AC excitation; Converter; Doubly-fed induction machine; Low-voltage ride through; Semiconductor

Abstract: Pumped storage power plants have large storage capacities of up to several gigawatt hours, which is crucial for the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources into electrical grids. Variable speed operation of pumped storage is essential for flexibility in power adjustment and can be realized with two different electrical drive concepts. The concept with a doubly fed induction machine requires a significantly smaller converter for AC excitation, offering advantages in terms of converter costs and the space in caverns. However, this advantage comes with higher requirements for specific operating points and grid faults. These special requirements can be met with customized AC excitation converters. This work focuses on designing and improving AC excitation with industrial converters to meet these demanding requirements. The outlined aspects enable an effective design for pumped storage with doubly fed induction machines.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64697/978-90-835589-7-4_41WC-P2135-cd

Year: 2025