Power generation apparatus using AC energization synchronous generator and method of controlling the same

A method of generating electric power for a power generation apparatus, said power generation apparatus including:

• an AC energization synchronous generator;
• a switching device for connecting to a network disposed on a stator side of said AC energization synchronous generator;
• an energizing device for applying a variable frequency AC to a secondary winding of said AC energization synchronous generator;
• and
• a first voltage detection unit for detecting a voltage of said switching device on the stator side, wherein said method comprises the step of:
• calculating a rotational frequency of said AC energization synchronous generator using information about a frequency of a stator side voltage of said switching device, while said switching device is open.

A wind power generation apparatus comprising:

• an AC energization synchronous generator having a rotor connected to a wind turbine;
• a switching device for connecting to a network disposed on a stator side of said AC energization synchronous generator;
• an energizing device for applying a variable frequency AC to a secondary winding of said AC energization synchronous generator;
• a first voltage detection unit for detecting a voltage of said switching device on the stator side;
• and
• a control unit for estimating a rotational frequency of said AC energization synchronous generator based on a frequency of a stator side voltage of said switching device, while said switching device is open.