This paper investigates the control strategies for
distributed energy resources (DERs), including diesel generators,
energy storage and demand response (DR), to achieve high
penetration of wind energy in a rural microgrid. In such a
system, it could be both economical and environmentally friendly
to harness wind power and displace the consumption of fossil
fuels. In the study, energy storage and DR are used to contain
frequency deviations and reduce diesel generators’ movement,
while maximizing the use of wind energy. Detailed dynamic
models of DERs and household loads are built to simulate the
microgrid. Combinations of centralized (direct control) and
decentralized (autonomous response) control strategies on DERs
are implemented. The control capabilities of each type of DERs
are also explored under different scenarios. The system responses
under high wind speeds and to large disturbances are tested.
Results show that coordinated DR and energy storage can
effectively compensate for wind variability as well as provide
desired frequency response. This consequently reduces the
movements of diesel generators and thereby the amount of
mechanical stress.