What is a solar tracking system?

Solar tracking systems also play an important role in the advancement of solar concentration applications such as solar-pumped lasers and parabolic concentrators [7, 8]. These trackers can improve the efficiency of the overall solar photovoltaic system, reducing the size and the cost per kilowatt hour (kWh).

What are the design characteristics of solar tracking mechanisms?

A scheme with the main design characteristics for solar tracking mechanisms. The simplest solar tracking mechanisms are characterized by a single axis of rotation that follows the altitude of the sun; these designs consist of a single revolute joint actuated by a motor, as shown in the scheme in Fig. 5 a.

What factors affect the energy output of photovoltaic tracking systems?

The energy output of photovoltaic tracking systems is influenced by several factors, including the photovoltaic material, geographical location of solar irradiances, ambient temperature and weather, angle of sun incidence, and orientation of the panel. This study reviews the principles and mechanisms of photovoltaic tracking systems to determine the optimal panel orientation.

How does a PV tracking system work?

The tracking system is driven by a single engine. The P V modules rotate from East to West on a horizontal axis, following the Sun’s daily movement. This configuration has a limited range of motion angle (β max). This range depends on the manufacturer. Typical values are β max = ± 60 (°) .

What parameters should be considered when designing a solar tracking system?

For the accurate design, implementation, and installation of a solar tracking system, several parameters must be considered, such as the latitude, angle of incidence, solar irradiance, tilt angle, declination angle, elevation angle, zenith angle, orientation angle, solar azimuth angle, and inclination angle.

How are horizontal single-axis solar trackers distributed in photovoltaic plants?

This study presents a methodology for estimating the optimal distribution of horizontal single-axis solar trackers in photovoltaic plants. Specifically, the methodology starts with the design of the inter-row spacing to avoid shading between modules, and the determination of the operating periods for each time of the day.