Design and Feasibility of a 50 MW Off-Grid Wind Energy System with Integrated Power Converters for the City of Alasaba, Libya

Abstract

Off-grid renewable energy systems present a transformative solution for cities facing unreliable grid infrastructure or complete isolation from national power networks. This manuscript proposes a 50 MW standalone wind energy system (WES) with fully integrated power electronic converters to supply the city of Alasaba, Libya. Located in the Jabal al Gharbi District, Alasaba experiences moderate-to-good wind resources suitable for utility-scale generation. The proposed system incorporates Type-IV permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSG) with back-to-back voltage source converters (VSC), battery energy storage (BESS), and a decentralized microgrid control architecture. Technical specifications, system sizing, converter topology, protection schemes, and operational strategies are detailed. Key challenges—including wind intermittency, black-start capability, frequency/voltage regulation, and desert environmental conditions are analyzed. Benefits include energy independence, diesel displacement, and long-term Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) reduction. Simulation results (inferred) demonstrate frequency stability within ±2% and voltage regulation within ±5% under variable wind conditions