Directory Image
This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using our website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

What is a solar tracker and is it worth the investment?

Author: Thomas Harder
by Thomas Harder
Posted: Oct 16, 2022

Solar trackers let you follow the path of the sun's path through the sky, akin to the sun's sunflower. They can generate additional solar energy. However, solar trackers can be costly to buy. Is the extra solar power output really justify the additional price of the solar tracker? In most cases, it is more beneficial to add more solar panels.

We'll discuss everything you need to know about solar trackers starting with the kinds available and whether they're worth it to invest in.

Solar trackers are a device that tracks the sun's path when it is moving across the sky. If solar trackers are linked by solar panels they will follow the path of the sun and create more energy that is renewable to use. Trackers for solar are usually used in conjunction with solar systems mounted on the ground, however, in recent times rooftop-mounted trackers are available.

Typically solar tracking devices will be connected to the rackings on solar panels. Solar panels are able to track the movement of the sun. The way in which the solar tracking system moves is determined by the type that it is.

There Are Three Kinds Of Solar Tracking Systems
  • Manual Solar Trackers

Manual trackers require you to manually move your panels at different times throughout the day to observe the sun. This is not always practical as you'll need a person to constantly monitor the sun's position, as well as the direction in which your solar panel, is located.

  • Passive Solar Trackers

Passive trackers are equipped with an evaporative liquid with low boiling points, which is able to evaporate when exposed to sunlight. Once the liquid has evaporated the tilt system becomes disoriented. This causes the panels to start moving in the direction of the sun's radiation.

  • Active Solar Trackers

Active trackers rely on motors or hydraulic cylinders to move their position. Motors used in active trackers move the PV panels in order so that they face the sun. Even though it is more effective as opposed to manual trackers, elements within the motors could easily fail. This can lead to increased cost of maintenance over the lifespan that the equipment.

Solar trackers can be further classified depending on the direction they're traveling in. A solar tracker could be any of these:

  • One Axis Solar Tracker
  • Two Axis solar tracker
Tracker with Single-Axis Solar Tracker

Single-axis trackers have the ability to follow the sun's position as it travels across an east-west line. They are usually used in large-scale construction projects. Single-axis trackers can boost production by 25percent or 35 percent.

Dual Solar Tracker with the Axis

The tracker doesn't follow the sun's motion from east-west but also tracks the sun's movement between south and north. Two-axis trackers are most common in commercial and residential solar projects that have small areas that are, they are capable of producing enough power to satisfy the energy requirements of their customers.

About the Author

Specializing In Everything Solar. We provide a variety of solar-related topics, such as product reviews and buying guides for solar. Our goal is to give you valuable details to assist you in selecting the ideal solar solution regardless of whether it

Rate this Article
Leave a Comment
Author Thumbnail
I Agree:
Comment 
Pictures
Author: Thomas Harder

Thomas Harder

Member since: Sep 28, 2022
Published articles: 16

Related Articles