Wind energy converters (WEC) with an asynchronous generator are usually connected to the grid during start‐up time via a softstarter, consisting of a three‐phase AC controller. In generator mode the controller is bridged and the wind turbine is connected directly to the grid. In this case changes of wind speed cause fluctuations of the electrical power. This paper shows, how the controller can be used as a power controller with the aim of reducing the grid interference and life‐time extension for the mechanical components. In simulation and on a WEC‐model 10‐kW test bed it could be shown that the power control limits the power up current to the nominal current and both power fluctuations produced by wind speed variation and tower shadow effect are reduced. The harmonics were analysed and compared to the harmonics of a six‐phase generator and a twelve‐pulse AC controller.
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Rösner et al. (2000) studied this question.