Wind energy conversion system: A review

Wind has been utilized as a source of power for many years. The generation of electrical energy from wind has experienced a remarkable pace in the past decade because of depleting conventional resources and increasing environmental issues. Wind energy conversion has become a reliable and competitive means for electric power generation, thanks to extensive Research and Development efforts in last 30 years. The life span of modern wind turbines is now 20-25 years, which is comparable to many other conventional power generation technologies. The average availability of commercial wind power plants is now around 98%. This paper reviews WECS system covering Aerodynamics, Mechanical and Electrical aspects.