Tracking systems are performance boosters for a solar power system. They do so by adjusting the position of the solar panels to receive maximum Sun. Solar power tracking systems should be considered by anyone interested in boosting their energy production.

The Sun changes daily, monthly, and seasonally the way it carves its path across the sky. Therefore the angle of beam radiation is constantly changing. The solar panels should be oriented perpendicular to the Sun at all times to best receive this radiation. A solar power tracking systems helps us achieve this.

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 simplest type of tracking is a manually adjustable one axis system. The solar panels are installed in a south facing direction, with a rotating mechanism on their horizontal axis. One can make seasonal adjustments to maintain the best operating angle for that time of year. A simple system such as this can gain 20% better performance when compared to a fixed solar panel installation. The Rotek design we use is an example of one such system.

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.

The highest upgrade with solar power tracking is an actively controlled two axis system. The solar panels will rotate on their horizontal and vertical axes, which gives us two modes of adjustability. The cost and complexity of a two axis system makes them more of a specialty, but they are the most accurate units available for tracking 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.

Two axis systems are not so practical with photovoltaic solar panels. The tracking on the second axis provides only 5% additional energy when compared with the one axis system. For solar panel installations, then, it is more convenient to stay with a one axis system for most applications.

Solar power systems are developed for two primary purposes: heat and electricity. Adding a solar tracking system to your design is useful for either case. When it comes to making electricity with solar panels, a solar power tracking system will increase the production of electrical energy. When it comes to acquiring and storing thermal heat, it will help your system obtain higher temperatures.

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.

Walter Hull is a recognized expert in solar power systems. For a short time you can get his free guide to solar power from your own yard.

If you're interested in making your own power at home, then why don't you Try Earth4Energy For Free? Also, have a look at our in-depth Earth4Energy Review. Thanks for visiting!

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