Sun Chaser: An Overview of Solar Trackers

Posted by Radmin on June 15th, 2019

The sun's trajectory can be a big factor when you're using a solar energy system to power your home. Read on to learn about a device that tracks the movement of the Earth's star.

What's a Solar Tracker?
It's an instrument that makes a PV module follow the sun. It can be mounted on flat roofs or set up on the ground. Solar trackers, or sun-tracking panels, enhance the ability of your mono oder polykristalline PV module to harness daylight. In effect, your system produces more energy to power your home. This technology is the first of its kind and the only one that's designed for this particular task.

What Are the Kinds to Choose From?

There are two types of tracking systems: single- and dual-axis. A single-axis tracking device follows the daily motion of the sun, which is from east to west. Dual-axis trackers don't just move from right to left; they also consider the change of the sun's position during different seasons, making their area of motion much larger and more accurate. Single-axis trackers are the most used today, but as solar power increases in popularity, so will the use of more efficient and accurate dual-axis ones.

How Do They Work?
Both single- and dual-axis solar trackers can be active or passive. The first depends on built-in software, or an electronic light sensor used to follow the sun. The latter uses gravity and heat to move: a compressed gas fluid is driven to either side of the device as the temperature changes.

Are They Necessary?
Most mono and polycrystalline PV modules in residential areas don't have a tracker, but they still meet the needs of the homeowners. Whether the device is beneficial for the customer is based on several factors like climate, location, and obstructions. It's important to mention these elements to the solar energy system expert if you're considering installing one.

Is this Tracking System Right for You?
As mentioned earlier, it'll depend on several factors. However, there are some things that you can think about for now.

• Does your area receive a lot of snow? The tracking device will have a hard time moving around because of the weight of the snow bearing on it.
• Do you have a big lawn? These devices require dedicated yard space to install and function properly.

• Another thing to note, if you live in a high-latitude location (meaning its closer to the Earth's poles), solar tracking devices are perfect because the sun frequently changes position in these areas.

Sun trackers are highly efficient devices that enhance your mono oder polykristalline PV module, but you should keep in mind that its ability to do so still depends on several factors. They're great for both large scale sites and home-use if installed properly in the right conditions.