In this paper, algorithms are proposed to get optimal parameters of a switched reluctance generator (SRG) when applied in variable speed wind generation systems. The driver's parameters affect power generated, torque ripples, iron losses, and electric losses. Therefore, the optimal values of the drive activation must be defined for SRG's operation in a wide speed range. Thus, knowing the operating points of the wind turbine (speed and power), algorithms that perform dynamic simulations of the operation at low and high speed were developed. Driver's parameters of the SRG are obtained through cost functions, which are defined such that the balance between torque ripples, iron losses, and electric losses are maintained. With simulations results, the cost functions were minimized to get SRG's optimal firing angles according to the operating speed. Simulation and experimental tests were performed emulating a wind turbine system. The results confirmed the efficiency of the methodology proposed in this paper. © 2016 Elsevier Ltd.97 114128