Fault current limiters for LVRT enhancement in wind turbine systems : technologies, trade-offs, and comparative simulation insights

Firouzi, Mehdi and Pourmirasghariyan, Mirhamed and Rouzbehi, Kumars and Arahal, Manuel R. (2026) Fault current limiters for LVRT enhancement in wind turbine systems : technologies, trade-offs, and comparative simulation insights. Energies, 19 (4). 1025. ISSN 1996-1073 (https://doi.org/10.3390/en19041025)

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Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive review and comparative evaluation of Fault Current Limiter (FCL) technologies for enhancing the Low-Voltage Ride-Through (LVRT) capability of Wind Turbine Generation Systems (WTGSs). Among various hardware solutions, FCLs have emerged as a particularly efficient and cost-effective approach to limit high fault currents and ensure grid code compliance. While the application of individual FCL types has been explored in the literature, a comparative analysis encompassing their technologies, inherent trade-offs, and performance insights remains lacking. To address this gap, this work examines the application of key FCL categories, including superconducting FCLs (SFCLs), resonance-type FCLs (RFCLs), and solid-state FCLs (SSFCLs), in both fixed-speed and variable-speed WTGS configurations. The paper synthesizes technological principles, assesses practical trade-offs (e.g., cost, response speed, scalability), and discusses critical insights derived from simulation-based comparisons. The consolidated findings aim to guide the selection, design, and future development of FCL solutions to enhance robust LVRT and provide reliable protection for modern wind power systems.