What are Dual Axis Solar Trackers?

Dual axis solar trackers, as the name suggests, are solar tracking systems that follow the sun along two axes of movement - azimuth and altitude. They are designed to automatically rotate solar panels toward the sun throughout the day to maximize energy harvesting from sunlight. This is done by precisely orienting the panels relative to the sun's position in the sky using motors and control mechanisms. Dual axis trackers offer a more effective way of aligning panels with the sun compared to fixed tilt or single axis trackers.

How do they work?

Dual Axis Solar Tracker operate using sensors, microcontrollers and electric motors. Sensors detect the position of the sun and send feedback to a microcontroller. The microcontroller then computes the appropriate angle for panel orientation along each axis. Electric motors powered by the solar installation itself or utility grid rotate the panels accordingly. Trackers can thus keep panels perpendicular to the sunrays throughout sunlit hours of the day. This optimization helps boost power generation by up to 30% compared to fixed structures. Tracking systems require reliable electronics and structural rigidity to withstand weather extremes.

Increased Energy Yields

By continually aligning panels with the sun's diurnal paths, dual axis trackers maximize the absorption of direct sunlight. This enhances power production potential significantly. Research shows dual axis tracking can increase annual yields by 25-30% over stationary structures. Yields are up to 5-10% higher than single axis trackers as well. The additional generation more than offsets the costs associated with tracking hardware, installation and maintenance over time. This makes dual axis a cost-effective solution for commercial and utility-scale PV plants seeking higher returns on investment.

Year-Round Performance Boost

Unlike seasons that diminish sunlight for parts of the year in many regions, dual axis tracking delivers consistent energy boosts 365 days a year. Trackers prevent sunlight loss due to angle of incidence that occurs with fixed installations as the sun moves across skies. They ensure panels operate at maximum efficiency regardless of seasonal sun positions or weather patterns like clouds that alter sunlight availability. This reliability in power delivery is highly valued by IPPs, corporations and utility providers aiming for steady renewable power supplies.

DistributedApplications

While large-scale projects harness most benefits of dual axis technology due to economics of scale, distributed applications are also emerging. Tracker implementations on commercial buildings, schools, farms etc provide increased self-generation. Third party tracking services are now available for residential PV systems too, promising payback periods of five years or less. Drop in costs of electronics and balance of systems are paving the way for scaling trackers to even modest solar capacities. Interest in trackers is also being driven by declining battery prices which boost their viability for off-grid solutions.

Structural Stability Requirements

A big design challenge lies in making tracker structures sufficiently robust and stable under various conditions. Tracker machinery needs long-term protection from wind, rain, snow loads and thermal stresses. Structural damage is one of the top reasons for tracker malfunctions in the past. Modern trackers now feature wind stow positions, heavy-duty ball bearings, corrosion-resistant materials and sturdy foundations to endure forces of nature. Advanced structural analysis tools help optimize structural rigidity while minimizing material usage. As tracking technology matures, emphasis on high cycle fatigue testing is enabling 25+ year product lifespans.

Overall, dual axis solar trackers have emerged as an efficient solution to maximize solar PV energy generation through optimal sun-tracking. Their benefits of higher yields, consistent outputs and long term returns are driving larger installations globally to meet renewable targets. With ongoing cost reductions and new distributed/off-grid applications, dual axis trackers offer significant promise to accelerate the solar sector.

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