Solar Power Tracking Systems

Tracking systems are designed to orient your solar panels toward the Sun. They will add an extra level of performance to your solar power system, for a little bit of expense and complexity.

Tracking systems are needed because of the complex path of the Sun. It traces an arc every single day, with a peak elevation that differs through the seasons. The more our solar panels are pointed directly at the Sun, the greater the beam radiation they will receive. This is the basic principle of a solar power tracking system.

When analyzing solar energy data, one can quickly see the advantage of a tracking system. We studied the State of Montana and found that summer time increases of 50% can be obtained. Spring and Fall months showed strong gains possible at 25% to 30%. Winter months showed an improvement of approximately 15%. The exact value of these numbers will depend on the type of system used and the installed location.

The most cost effective tracking for solar panels is a manually adjustable one axis system. The adjustability is on the horizontal axis, so the solar panels can rotate toward the southern horizon. By making seasonal adjustments to our solar panels we increased our performance by 20% in the summer and winter months.

To further boost performance we can add a control system to our one axis tracking. This is called active solar tracking, where the solar panels automatically rotate throughout the day. These systems provide the largest gains, up to 50% in the summer months. Performance remains good throughout the year as well, so for a little more cost they are worth investigation.

Two axis tracking systems are the most complex and most accurate installations available. With these systems, your solar panels have additional flexibility on their vertical axis (East to West). These systems are the most exact when it comes to following the Sun.

Two axis systems are commonly used with concentrating solar collector designs. These types of collectors, like a magnifying glass, focus the rays of the Sun. Systems with these installations require the highest possible operating temperatures. Examples include thermal power stations, stirling engines, and pebble bed transfer systems.

When it comes to using solar panels to generate electricity, a two axis system is not the way to go. They will yield a very modest 5% gain over an actively tracking one axis system. For the cost and simplicity, we recommend a manually adjustable or actively tracking one axis system.

There are two general functions in mind when designing for solar energy. These functions are solar power electricity, and thermal storage or heating. No matter what the design purpose is, a good tracking system is an easy way to boost performance from your solar power system.

Solar power tracking systems are useful for anybody who wants to enhance their system performance. There is a tradeoff, however, with the additional cost and installation. For those who like simplicity but want a little extra performance, then a manual one axis system is a good way to go. For those looking for maximum energy production, then active tracking systems should be explored.

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1. Solar Panel Mounting Systems
2. Residential Solar Power Systems – Your Guide For A Greener Home
3. How Home Solar Power Systems Work
4. Is Solar Energy Right For You?
5. Why Using A Solar Powered Attic Fan Is So Good