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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.

The amount of energy gained will depend on your location and the type of tracking system used. We looked up the solar energy tables for the state of Washington, and the difference between a fixed solar panel system and one with tracking was ~40% more in the summer months. The spring months showed a 25% increase, and winter about 10%.

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.

Automatic (active) one axis tracking systems are also available. They are self-adjusting units that rotate daily with the arc of the Sun. Performance gains are 40% or more in the summer months, which commands serious consideration. There is the added complexity of the electronic and mechanical control mechanisms, but this cost can be offset by their superior performance.

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.

The primary applications for solar power are with generating heat and electricity. A solar power tracking system is useful in either case. The more energy we receive, the more heat and electricity we can manufacture. It’s that simple.

If you desire an extra level of performance with your solar panels, a one axis tracking system is recommended. A manually adjustable system, such as Rotek, is a low cost solution and will provide modest gains. An actively controlled tracking system at moderate cost will provide very good gains. You will have to make a compromise between the upfront costs and desired performance when making this decision.

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