Remote Real-Time Monitoring and Control of Small Wind Turbines Using Open-Source Hardware and Software

Abstract

This paper presents a real-time remote-control platform for small wind turbines (SWTs) equipped with a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG). The proposed system integrates a DC–DC boost converter controlled by an Arduino® microcontroller, a Raspberry Pi® hosting aWebSocket server, and a desktop application developed using MATLAB® App Designer (version R2024b). The platform enables seamless remote monitoring and control by allowing upper layers to select the turbine’s operating mode—either Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) or Power Curtailment—based on real-time wind speed data transmitted via theWebSocket protocol. The communication architecture follows the IEC 61400-25 standard for wind power system communication, ensuring reliable and standardized data exchange. Experimental results demonstrate high accuracy in controlling the turbine’s operating points. The platform offers a user-friendly interface for real-time decision-making while ensuring robust and efficient system performance. This study highlights the potential of combining open-source hardware and software technologies to optimize SWT operations and improve their integration into distributed renewable energy systems. The proposed solution addresses the growing demand for cost-effective, flexible, and remote-control technologies in small-scale renewable energy applications.