Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Tracker Systems
Solar Tracker Systems is a more sophisticated method of attaching photovoltaic panels. When the sun passes at an unfavorable angle, the productivity of stationary mounts, which keep panels in a permanent position, can be harmed. Solar trackers compensate for this by automatically moving to “follow” the sun’s movement across the sky, optimizing output. It helps the solar panel follow the sun’s path just like a sunflower throughout the day.
It’s an excellent system for energy output, but there are a few things to keep in mind before using it on a specific job site.
Advantages of Solar Tracker Systems
- Due to increased direct exposure to sun rays, trackers generate more electricity than stationary equivalents. Depending on the geographic location of the tracking device, this increase can range from 10% to 25%.
- Solar trackers come in a variety of configurations, including single-axis and dual-axis trackers, each of which can be tailored to a specific site requirement. The size of the solar installation, the weather in the area, the degree of latitude, and the electrical requirements are all factors that might influence the type of solar tracker that is best suited for a certain solar installation.
- Solar trackers produce more electricity in roughly the same amount of space as fixed-tilt systems, making them excellent for land-use optimization.
- Some utilities in some states provide Time of Use (TOU) pricing plans for solar electricity, which means the utility will pay a higher price for power generated during the day’s peak hours. In this situation, it is more cost-effective to generate more electricity during these peak hours of the day. Using a tracking system will help you get the most out of your energy increases during these peak times.
- Long-term maintenance problems for tracking systems have been greatly decreased thanks to advancements in technology and reliability in electronics and mechanics.
Disadvantages of Solar Tracker Systems
- Due to the more complex technology and moving parts required for their functioning, solar trackers are slightly more expensive than their stationary counterparts. Depending on the size and location of the project, this usually amounts to a $0.08 – $0.10/W increase.
- Even with the improvements in reliability, solar trackers still require more maintenance than typically fixed racks, albeit the quality of the solar tracker can influence how much and how often this maintenance is required.
- Fixed racking is a simpler arrangement than trackers. This usually necessitates additional site preparation, such as additional trenching for wiring and some grading.
- Single-axis tracker projects necessitate a greater emphasis on the company’s stability and dependability. These systems are more complex when it comes to getting projects funded, and as a result, they are considered a higher risk by financiers.
- Solar trackers are built for climates where there is little to no snow, making them a more realistic option in warmer climates. Tracking systems have a harder time adapting to harsh environmental conditions than fixed racking.
- Compared to single-axis tracking systems, fixed tracking systems have more field flexibility. Fixed systems can normally accommodate up to 20% slopes in the E/W direction, whereas tracking systems typically give less slope accommodation in the N/S direction, usually about 10%.
solar tracker systems are extremely efficient installations that may be used for both large and small project sites if the location and site circumstances are right. Overall, solar trackers are highly efficient installations that are well suited to many smaller construction sites. If you’d like to learn more about solar trackers or how a solar tracker system could benefit your job site, please contact us!
