A Review of New Technologies in the Design and Application of Wind Turbine Generators

Pawel Prajzendanc () and Christian Kreischer
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Pawel Prajzendanc: Faculty of Mechatronics and Electrical Engineering, Maritime University of Szczecin, Willowa 2, 71-650 Szczecin, Poland
Christian Kreischer: Electrical Machines and Drive Systems, Helmut Schmidt University/University of the Federal Armed Forces, 22043 Hamburg, Germany

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 15, 1-32

Abstract: The growing global demand for electricity, driven by the development of electromobility, data centers, and smart technologies, necessitates innovative approaches to energy generation. Wind power, as a clean and renewable energy source, plays a pivotal role in the global transition towards low-carbon power systems. This paper presents a comprehensive review of generator technologies used in wind turbine applications, ranging from conventional synchronous and asynchronous machines to advanced concepts such as low-speed direct-drive (DD) generators, axial-flux topologies, and superconducting generators utilizing low-temperature superconductors (LTS) and high-temperature superconductors (HTS). The advantages and limitations of each design are discussed in the context of efficiency, weight, reliability, scalability, and suitability for offshore deployment. Special attention is given to HTS-based generator systems, which offer superior power density and reduced losses, along with challenges related to cryogenic cooling and materials engineering. Furthermore, the paper analyzes selected modern generator designs to provide references for enhancing the performance of grid-synchronized hybrid microgrids integrating solar PV, wind, battery energy storage, and HTS-enhanced generators. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and engineers developing next-generation wind energy technologies with improved efficiency and integration potential.

Keywords: direct-drive wind turbines; wind turbine generators; superconducting generators; axial-flux generators; low-speed high-power generators; generator technologies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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