Dual-axis solar trackers provide higher energy production compared to fixed or single-axis systems because they follow the sun’s position more precisely throughout the day and year. However, their higher initial cost often challenges their overall cost-effectiveness.
Cost Considerations and Energy Gains
- Dual-axis trackers can cost roughly double the price of a fixed ground-mounted solar system. For example, a fixed system might cost around $14,625, while adding dual-axis trackers could raise costs to about $29,625, an additional $15,000 investment.
- This investment yields only a moderate increase in annual savings on electricity bills—about $440 more per year compared to a fixed system—resulting in a long payback period close to 20 years.
- Instead of investing in dual-axis trackers, installing additional fixed solar panels can produce a similar energy output for significantly less additional cost (e.g., 6 more panels for $5,850 vs. $15,000 for dual-axis trackers).
Regional Effectiveness
- Solar trackers, especially dual-axis ones, tend to be more beneficial in regions with high solar irradiance and where maximizing energy capture per unit area is critical. In these regions, the incremental energy gain can justify the higher upfront expense.
- Conversely, in areas with moderate or low sunlight or where land is not limited, the cost-effectiveness of dual-axis tracking is usually poor compared to simply expanding fixed solar arrays.
Complexity and Maintenance
- Dual-axis trackers are more mechanically complex and costly to maintain than single-axis trackers or fixed systems, which can further affect long-term cost-effectiveness.
- Single-axis trackers often provide a better balance of cost versus energy gain and are considered more cost-effective in many applications.
Summary
Dual-axis solar trackers are more cost-effective primarily in regions with strong, consistent sunlight and limited space to expand solar panel area. However, for most locations, the high upfront cost and maintenance complexity mean it is often cheaper and nearly as effective to install more fixed solar panels or use simpler single-axis trackers. The incremental energy gain does not usually justify the significantly higher investment outside of specific high-insolation scenarios.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-dual-axis-trackers-more-cost-effective-in-certain-regions/
