Tracking Solar Mounts
The solar altitude angle at the same location changes continuously throughout the day. Therefore, the tilt angle at which the photovoltaic (PV) array receives the maximum solar radiation also varies constantly. The function of the tracking system is to use algorithms to determine the real-time position of the sun and monitor the motor rotation angle through motor encoders, ensuring the sun is always aligned with the solar panels to capture the maximum incident solar radiation. On the premise of ensuring the safe operation of the mounts, tracking solar mounts calculate the optimal power generation angle of the modules in real time for different weather conditions, prioritizing the optimal power generation performance of the modules. Common types are as follows:
The axis of horizontal single-axis tracking mounts is north-south oriented, and the modules rotate from east to west to track the sun's azimuth angle. It offers advantages such as lower requirements for foundation precision compared to fixed mounts, low civil engineering costs, reduced pile foundation needs, multi-point support for strong wind resistance, low structural costs, low levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), and high return on investment (ROI) and cost-effectiveness.
The axis of inclined single-axis tracking mounts is north-south oriented, with a higher north end and lower south end. Compared to horizontal single-axis mounts, it is more conducive to collecting solar radiation. Its advantages include lower foundation precision requirements than fixed mounts, low civil engineering costs, and greater suitability for high-latitude regions. However, it has drawbacks such as weaker wind resistance, larger floor space, higher price, and lower ROI and cost-effectiveness when applied in large-scale ground-mounted PV plants.
Dual-axis tracking systems can track both the sun's azimuth and altitude angles, achieving real-time and precise sun tracking. The key advantage is that it delivers the highest power generation increase among all mount types—25% to 35% higher than fixed mounts. Disadvantages include high price, large initial investment, extensive floor space (approximately twice that of fixed mounts), and high long-term maintenance costs, resulting in low cost-effectiveness for large-scale ground-mounted PV plant applications.
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