Solar PV manufacturers are constantly making incremental improvements to their solar panels to create a higher energy yield per unit than previous and competing models. This is another proven way to increase system output is by using solar trackers, which automatically follows the sun’s path throughout the day and maximizes the electrical output.
Why?
When solar panels are exposed to sunlight, the angle of incidence determines how well the panel can convert the incoming light into electricity. The narrower the angle of incidence, the more energy a photovoltaic panel can produce. Solar trackers help to minimize this angle by working to orient panels so that light strikes them perpendicular to their surface. There is literally no other technology that can increase the output of a solar array like a tracker. By maintaining constant, direct exposure to the sun, a tracker can improve a system’s output by up to 40% over a traditional fixed-tilt system.
Types
There are two types of solar trackers: 1. Single-axis solar trackers track the sun east to west, rotating on a single point 2. Dual-axis trackers, which can rotate on both the X and Y axes, making Solar PV follow the sun directly. In those areas where the position of sun deviates hugely between summer and winter, a dual-axis tracker would be proven more efficient in increasing the solar output.
Is this system the right option for you?
Solar tracking systems are more often used in large commercial projects. For commercial-scale solar arrays, the long-term benefit of increased production over time is enough to make the initial cost and maintenance fees worth it.
If you are interested in a renewable energy source to help defray the increasing cost of electricity, an axis tracker may offer enough long-term benefits to justify initial and ongoing operating expenses. Whether you want a ground-mounted solar array with solar trackers or a rooftop system, it is always important to compare your options before moving forward.
Staten Solar can solicitate you with better quotes for both ground-mounted and rooftop solar projects and can further guide you that your solar project will be good with a tracking system or not.
