Solar Tracking System

Solar Tracking System
A solar tracking system is a specific device intended to move the PV

modules in such a way that they continuously face the sun with the aim of
maximizing the irradiation received by the PV array.
Solar Tracking Systems
A solar tracking system is a specific device intended to move the PV
modules in such a way that they continuously face the sun with the
aim of maximizing the irradiation received by the PV array. A solar
tracking system is composed of three well-differentiated components:
the mechanism, the driving motors, and the tracking controller.
Single-Axis Tracker
Because solar tracking implies moving parts and control systems that
tend to be expensive, single-axis tracking systems seem to be the best
solution for small PV power plants. A single-axis solar tracking
system uses a tilted PV panel mount and one electric motor to move
the panel on an approximate trajectory relative to the Sun's position.
The rotation axis can be horizontal, vertical, or oblique. Fig. 9.7
shows a general scheme of a one-axis tracker showing both the
rotation axis (unit vector e) and the collector plane (unit vector
normal to the collector plane). The angle between these two unit
vectors is usually kept constant in this type of tracker.
DUAL-Axis Trackers
Using two-axis trackers, maximum energy collection can be achieved because, due
to its total freedom of movement (north–south and east–west), the tracker can face
the sun's rays throughout the day (Fig. 9.12).
Driving Motor
Depending on the driving mechanism, solar trackers can be
classified into active or passive solar trackers. Active driving
mechanism can be based on electric motors (DC or AC) or
hydraulic systems, whereas passive ones are based on gravitational
systems.
The most common driving mechanism is an electric motor because
it allows a simpler and precise control of the movement. AC electric
motors are more widely used than DC ones. For one-axis trackers,
only one motor is required, whereas for two-axis trackers, two
motors are needed.
Advantages:
1.Trackers generate more electricity than their stationary counterparts due to increased direct
exposure to solar rays. This increase can be as much as 10 to 25% depending on the
geographic location of the tracking system.
2.There are many different kinds of solar trackers, such as single-axis and dual-axis trackers,
all of which can be the perfect fit for a unique jobsite. Installation size, local weather,
degree of latitude and electrical requirements are all important considerations that can
influence the type of solar tracker best suited for a specific solar installation.
3. Solar trackers generate more electricity in roughly the same amount of space needed for
fixed-tilt systems, making them ideal for optimizing land usage.
4.In certain states, some utilities offer Time of Use (TOU) rate plans for solar power, which
means the utility will purchase the power generated during the peak time of the day at a
higher rate. In this case, it is beneficial to generate a greater amount of electricity during
these peak times of the day. Using a tracking system helps maximize the energy gains during
these peak time periods.
5. Advancements in technology and reliability in electronics and mechanics have drastically
reduced long-term maintenance concerns for tracking systems.
Disadvantages:
1. Solar trackers are slightly more expensive than their stationary counterparts, due to the
more complex technology and moving parts necessary for their operation..
2.Even with the advancements in reliability, there is generally more maintenance required
than a traditional fixed rack, though the quality of the solar tracker can play a role in how
much and how often this maintenance is needed.
3.Trackers are a more complex system than fixed racking. This means that typically more site
preparation is needed, including additional trenching for wiring and some additional grading.
4.Single-axis tracker projects also require an additional focus on company stability and
bankability. When it comes to getting projects financed, these systems are more complex and
thus are seen as a higher risk from a financier’s viewpoint.
5.Solar trackers are generally designed for climates with little to no snow making them a
more viable solution in warmer climates. Fixed racking accommodates harsher
environmental conditions more easily than tracking systems.
6.Fixed tracking systems offer more field adjustability than single-axis tracking systems.
Fixed systems can generally accommodate up to 20% slopes in the E/W direction while
tracking systems typically offer less of a slope accommodation usually around 10% in the
N/S direction.
A solar tracker is a device that orients a payload toward the Sun. Payloads are
usually solar panels, parabolic troughs, fresnel reflectors, lenses or the mirrors of
a heliostat.
For flat-panel photovoltaic systems, trackers are used to minimize the angle of
incidence between the incoming sunlight and a photovoltaic panel, sometimes
known as the cosine error. Reducing this angle increases the amount of energy
produced from a fixed amount of installed power generating capacity. In standard
photovoltaic applications, it was predicted in 2008-2009 that trackers could be
used in at least 85% of commercial installations greater than one megawatt from
2009 to 2012

Solar Tracking System

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Solar Tracking System

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Solar Tracking System

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Solar Tracking System

A solar tracking system is a specific device intended to move the PV

You might also like