Nonlinear Control of a Fully-Fed Variable Speed Pumped Storage Plant

This paper presents the nonlinear control of a Fully-Fed Synchronous Machine based Variable Speed Pumped Storage Plant (FFSM PSP). First, a model is developed and the control objective is established followed by the control design. The control algorithm is designed using Feedback Linearization robustified by a Second Order Sliding Mode Control (SOSMC). Using both techniques allows a fast response of the system while relaxing the conditions on the Sliding Mode Control and avoiding the known chattering problem. The control is compared with the industrial standard PI controller from the dynamic response point of view and also during short-circuits.