Types And Specifications Of Solar Panel Trackers

You can use solar panel trackers as an effective way of increasing your solar power generation without incurring extra costs. Solar energy has become a common alternative, and a greener way of generating power. Its main cost is the initial cost of installation, once that’s covered the rest is free.

Solar panels are becoming part and parcel of suburban living, and you can maximize power generation by using trackers. You can install trackers along with these panels to ensure that they are constantly aligned in the direction of sunlight. This removes the hassle of changing the direction yourself after every hour or two according to the position of the sun.

Solar panel trackers are available in many types, designs, and working mechanisms. There are two main types of this equipment that are used both domestically and commercially. It is useful to have knowledge of these types so that you can select the best one for your use.

Active Solar Panel Trackers

This first type is called an active tracker. This is where the device moves automatically in the direction of sunlight by drawing power from a battery. This battery may have a connection to regular power grid for operation. Another type of tracker does not rely on regular power for battery charging as they harvest energy from the sun while still using a specialized motor. The device moves as per the directions fed into its controlling device, or in a set pattern that you can control and modify.

Passive Trackers

These types of trackers does not have a motor and do not use electrical power for operation. They rely solely on the gravitational pull of the earth as well as the position of the sun in the sky. They tilt towards the east during sunrise and continue their movement towards the west, corresponding to the movements of the sun. This natural movement helps in maximizing the amount of sunlight falling on solar panels helping them to maintain a steady output.

Single-axis Trackers

Solar panel trackers come in either single-axis or dual-axis movement. Single-axis trackers are usually aligned in true-North meridian, though it is possible to change their position. This type of tracker can be aligned in a horizontal direction, vertical direction, or at a tilted angle. Single-axis trackers have been found to increase power generation when compared to stationary solar panels affixed on a roof or a wall.

Dual-axis Trackers

This type of tracker can move in two axes, usually located at right angle to each other. This grants a greater flexibility in movement and enables greater harvesting of solar energy. According to a study conducted by the Wright Ingraham Institute, dual-axis trackers can add as much as 6 percent of additional electrical power compared to single-axis trackers. Dual-axis trackers are available for domestic users and it is recommended that you install them at your home to boost power generation if you have the means.

The flexibility and power-enhancement features of solar panel trackers will enable you to boost electrical power generation in your home or office. They are useful if you plan to squeeze the utmost out of your solar panels.