Trackers Technology
A solar tracker is a device designed to maximize the amount of sunlight a photovoltaic (PV) module is exposed to. As the name implies, a solar tracker will move a PV module array to follow the path of the sun. Doing so allows more constant exposure to the sun's light for longer periods of the day. Since PV modules convert sunlight into electricity, the amount of sunlight they receive is an important consideration in their operational efficiency and power output capability.
Getting the highest performance from your PV modules is the best way to maximize your solar energy investment. Think of it this way. In most instances the costs of buying PV modules represents the largest percentage of a solar energy system investment. If you can increase the power output of your modules by 10% that is like getting 10% more modules for the same money or paying 10% less for the same size modules. Now consider that a properly designed and installed solar tracker can increase the electrical yield of your PV modules from 25-40% and the financial benefits become apparent. Simply stated you can generate more electricity at a lower cost, reducing both investment costs and the time it takes for your solar energy system to pay for itself.
Solar trackers can be grouped into two main categories, single and dual axis. A single axis tracker will orient your PV modules along one axis of rotation, either vertical or horizontal. Dual axis systems rotate along both vertical and horizontal axis. While a dual axis tracker will increase the efficiency of your PV modules a little more than a single axis tracker, they are also more complicated devices requiring larger investment costs and maintenance. One should consider both the costs and benefits of a dual axis tracker before deciding which tracking system is right for them.
Solar trackers also utilize different methods to track the sun. One method, active tracking, uses circuits and photo-sensors to directly calculate the position of the sun and move the PV module array accordingly. Another method, known as passive tracking, most commonly relies on temperature sensitive, compressed gas fluids for movement. The gas fluid is heated by the sun's energy and moves within a tracker housing. As the gas fluid moves, the weight is shifted along the tracker and it rotates to correct the weight imbalance, which corresponds to the sun's position. Solar trackers can also be designed to track in a chronological manner, a method that does not require any actual sensing of the sun, but relies on known data concerning the earth's rotation in relation to the sun.
Solar trackers produce benefits in a wide range of applications. In most instances, they are the ideal solution for the power generation needs of water pumps and other remote power applications. If solar tracking is an option for your residence, you will be very pleased with the improved performance of your solar modules and the convenience of ground level installation. For utility scale applications solar trackers dramatically outperform static solar panel arrays, increasing system production and generating larger returns on investment.
If you are interested in all the benefits that a solar tracking system can provide, know that Everlight produces tracking systems that are both affordable and reliable. For additional information or questions please contact us at .
