Single Axis Trackers vs Fixed Tilt Systems: Making the Right Choice for Your Solar Farms
When designing a solar farm or any commercial-size solar project, the choice between single-axis trackers (SAT) and fixed-tilt systems often arises.
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Both options have pros and cons that must be considered before determining which best suits your project requirements and client needs.
Let’s delve into the three main criteria to compare and consider
Efficiency and Generation
- The whole point of Single Axis Trackers is to keep the panels perpendicular to the sun throughout the day for as long as possible compared to the fixed tilt system that will allow for 100% perpendicularity with the sun, for about only 45min if your system is correctly set up.
- This in turn, makes single-axis trackers more efficient in absorbing and generating energy than the fixed tilt and can have an increased generating capacity of up to 15 – 25%. I don’t need to tell you just how much of a difference that makes!
- With increased generating capacity and using the panels to their full potential, there is no need to over-panel a Single Axis Tracking system compared to the fixed tilt system, where it becomes a necessity.
- This phenomenon becomes evident when the screws, used to fasten mounting brackets to steel roof cladding, are exposed to moisture or saltwater.
Overhead Costs and Maintenance
When planning to build a solar farm or any large-scale solar project, the overhead cost and maintenance might be the deciding factor depending on where the site is located.
- Single Axis Trackers can have an increased initial cost and installation cost of 7 – 25%, depending on the project size. The difference in initial cost can quickly be countered with the capital saved on the decrease in panels required to generate a similar yield.
- Because there are no moving parts, the fixed-tilt system does not require maintenance as much as the tracker. The long-term operational cost should be considered when deciding which option best suits your site.
- Maintenance on trackers is typically only every 2 – 5 years as all the components have different lifespans, and the ease of replacing also varies.
Regular site maintenance, such as removing or trimming vegetation and panel cleaning, is similar for both mounting structures.
Space and Topography
Single Axis Trackers become more cost-effective when designed with long tables, allowing the slew drive to function at optimal efficiency compared to shorter configurations. However, these extended structures require even terrain. If your chosen site lacks the necessary topography for single-axis trackers, you may need to consider levelling the land or opting for fixed-tilt structures that can better accommodate uneven terrain.
As we know, purchasing land can be expensive, especially when planning to install a few megawatts of solar capacity. For Single Axis Trackers to perform at their peak, additional row spacing is essential to prevent early back-tracking, which can negatively impact your overall yield. Depending on the location, Single Axis Trackers can increase the land required by 15 – 30% compared to north-facing fixed-tilt structures.
Lumax Has it All!
Whether you go with Single Axis Trackers or fixed-tilt Ground Mounts, Lumax Energy’s expert engineers are here to guide you every step of the way – ensuring your system delivers maximum energy output while staying within budget.
Single Axis Tracker vs Fixed Tilt Ground Mount
- Single Axis Tracker
Keeps the optimal angle to the sun all day
- Fixed Tilt Ground Mount
Achieves optimal angle for only about 45min
- Single Axis Tracker
Can boost energy output by 15-25%
- Fixed Tilt Ground Mount
May need extra panels for similar energy yield
- Single Axis Tracker
Maintenance every 2-5 years
- Fixed Tilt Ground Mount
Lower maintenance needs
- Single Axis Tracker
Requires 15-30% more land
- Fixed Tilt Ground Mount
Requires less space
