Power ramping a turbine from a low-power mode

Abstract

Embodiments herein describe varying the rotor speed based on the current wind speed when operating in a low power mode. Generally, as the wind speed increases above the rated wind speed (i.e., the wind speed at which the turbine is capable of producing its rated or maximum output power), the rotor speed can be reduced thereby minimizing the risk that the turbine experiences smearing or torque reversals. In one embodiment, as the rotor speed decreases, the turbine maintains the ability to ramp to the rated power of the turbine only by pitching in the blades to an optimal blade pitch angle. Thus, upon receiving a request to cease operating in the low power mode, the turbine can increase the output power to the rated power without first increasing the rotor speed.