Patents Assigned to HECO, Inc.
  • Patent number: 7002260
    Abstract: A power control interface between an unstable power source such as a wind farm and a power transmission line employs an electrical energy storage, control system, and electronic compensation module which act together like an “electronic shock absorber” for storing excess power during periods of increased power generation and releasing stored energy during periods of decreased power generation due to wind fluctuations. The control system is provided with a “look ahead” capability for predicting power output (wind speed conditions) and maintaining energy storage or release over a “narrow-band” range despite short duration fluctuations. The control system uses data derived from monitoring the wind farm power output and the power transmission line, and employs system-modeling algorithms to predict narrow-band wind speed conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: HECO, Inc.
    Inventor: Karl E. Stahlkopf