Analysis of Power Transfer from a Wind Generator to the Electrical Grid Using Thevenin and Norton Equivalents, and Maximum Power Transfer
Yassine AIT BRIK
Abstract. The integration of Wind turbines into the electrical grid requires the optimization of power transfer efficiency to minimize losses to the internal resistances and maximize the energy delivery, especially in a very old grid like Morocco’s. This study investigates the application of Thevenin’s theorem, and maximum power transfer principles, in order to model and optimize power delivery from a simplified wind generator to connect to the local grid. The wind generator is modeled as an Alternative Current (AC) voltage source with internal resistance representing the turbine losses and transmission line impedance. Through variations of load resistance and comprehensive circuit analysis using MATLAB simulation, this work determines optimal conditions for maximum power transfer. The results show that maximum power transfer of 720W happens when load resistance equals the Thevenin resistance (R_th=R_l = 5 Ω), achieving 50% efficiency. The resistance mismatch analysis reveals that deviation from optimal conditions reduces power transfer significantly. This research relates essential circuit theory with renewable energy system design, providing insights for improving wind to grid power transfer efficiency.
Keywords
Wind Energy, Thevenin Theorem, Maximum Power Transfer, Grid Integration, Circuit Analysis, Renewable Energy Systems
Published online 4/25/2026, 7 pages
Copyright © 2026 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Yassine AIT BRIK, Analysis of Power Transfer from a Wind Generator to the Electrical Grid Using Thevenin and Norton Equivalents, and Maximum Power Transfer, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 64, pp 432-438, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644904091-54
The article was published as article 54 of the book Energy Futures
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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