In this paper two modes of operating a wound rotor induction machine as a generator at sub-and super-synchronous speeds in wind energy conversion systems are investigated. In the first mode, known as double fed induction generator (DFIG), the rotor circuit is fed from the ac mains via a controlled rectifier and a forced commutated inverter. Adjusting the applied rotor voltage magnitude and phase leads to machine operation as a generator at sub-synchronous speeds. In the second mode, the machine is operated in a slip recovery scheme where the slip energy is fed back to the ac mains via a rectifier and line commutated inverter. This mode is described as double output induction generator (DOIG) leading to increase the efficiency of the wind-to electrical energy conversion system. Simulated results of both modes are presented. Experimental verification of the simulated results are presented for the DOIG mode of operation, showing larger amount of power captured and better power factor when compared to conventional induction generators.