Solar Panel Fixed Vs Tracker

Benefits of fixed pv systems.

Solar panel fixed vs tracker.

Or you could buy a tracker for 600 1000 per panel. These panels can be used in a fixed form or used in a solar tracking system for single axis as well as for dual axis. Solar photovoltaic pv power plants utilize three main types of racking systems. I fixed tilt ii single axis tracker and iii dual axis tracker.

Let s compare both options. A solar tracker will cost more money up front than a fixed solar panel system because it is a more complex technology and has moving parts. A ground mount for a six panel system will cost about 480 in materials. In a world of rapidly decreasing prices for solar ppas increased power production is critical in helping project owners achieve a viable roi.

In many cases it is cheaper to install more solar panels to increase the system s energy output than it is to install a solar tracker. While solar trackers will increase the solar panel system s energy production they are very expensive and can potentially double the cost of installing solar panels. You can buy hardware for a standard fixed ground mount for about 80 per panel. Fixed rack system 3 vs tracked system 4 cost breakdown the tracking price is 2 24 per dc watt.

Compared to a fixed mount the additional cost per watt or premium to track is 1 33 per watt 2 24 0 91. That increases the installed cost for a tracked pv system from 8 63 to 9 96 per dc watt. With proper installation a sturdy mount secures your panels in harsh weather and protects your investment. A fixed tilt system positions the modules at a fixed tilt and orientation while solar tracker systems automatically adjust the positions of the pv array so that the pv modules consistently track the sun throughout the day.

Most of the pv power plant designed fixed type of installation. In a fixed form their efficiency is low since the panels will be tilted in a. With a more complex system comes more maintenance which can add up in cost over time. A solar panel mount or solar racking system is the foundation that holds your solar array in place.

On the other hand it s also possible to produce more energy with the same quantity pv panels and inverters. Mounts are used to attach solar panels to the roof ground or another surface on your property. Trackers increase the production of a site by more than 15 to 25 over fixed tilt. If you put six 305w panels on a tracker the rated output on your system is 1830w.

The roi of a pv tracker vs. This also leads to the second area of increased cost for solar tracking systems.