Abstract:
This paper presents an overview of various methods used
to minimize the fluctuating impacts of power generated from
renewable energy sources. Several sources are considered in the
study (biomass, wind, solar, hydro and geothermal). Different
control methods applied to their control are cited, alongside some
previous applications. Hence, it further elaborates on the adoptive
control principles, of which includes; Load ballast control, dummy
load control, proportional integral and derivative (PID) control,
proportional integral (PI) control, pulse-width modulation (PWM)
control, buck converter control, boost converter control, pitch
angle control, valve control, the rate of river flow at turbine,
bidirectional diffuser-augmented control and differential flatnessbased
controller. These control operations in renewable energy
power generation are mainly based on a steady-state linear control
approach. However, the flatness based control principle has the
ability to resolve the complex control problem of renewable energy
systems while exploiting their linear properties. Using their
flatness properties, feedback control is easily achieved which
allows for optimal/steady output of the system components. This
review paper highlights the benefits that range from better control
techniques for renewable energy systems to established robust grid
(or standalone generations) connections that can bring immense
benefits to their operation and maintenance costs.
