In this chapter we will look at a few real wind-diesel schemes. Three systems have been chosen for examination.

The first is an experimental/demonstration system which has been developed in Norway. The system is a very good example of a self-contained, ‘go-anywhere’ package. The storage device is coupled to the system electrically. The system is now commercially available.

The second scheme is entirely different from most architectures considered in the book insofar as it relies upon consumer load management principles. It is a real commercial, working system and has been installed on the Scottish island of Foula by Windharvester Ltd of the UK. A comprehensive description is given to illustrate to the reader the level of sophistication and complexity which may be required to make best use of cheap renewable energy inputs.

The third system is the wind-diesel research facility at the UK Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. It is a good example of a laboratory scale experimental facility. The scheme was the first to use flywheel energy storage coupled mechanically to the diesel gen-set.

CASE STUDY 1 - THE FROEYA WIND-DIESEL DEMONSTRATION

Design aims and background

Although Norway has abundant, cheap hydro power, interest in wind-diesel systems is growing, particularly since they could form attractive alternatives for island communities currently served either by decentralised diesels, or by ageing submarine cables.

In recognition of this, EB-Energy has developed a commercial wind-diesel package, partly funded by the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Administration (NVE).