Taller solar trackers installed on uneven or hilly terrain can positively impact energy production in several ways:
- Maximized Sun Exposure on Slopes: Trackers that follow the uneven terrain can align solar panels more directly with the sun compared to flat installations. For example, modeling by Nevados Engineering showed that trackers on a 17% slope captured about 6% more solar energy than trackers on flat ground and up to 30% more than fixed-tilt systems. This is because sun-facing slopes naturally offer better solar exposure.
- Independent Row Movement for Optimal Angling: Taller or terrain-following trackers are designed so that each row of panels moves independently, adjusting for differences in height and slope angle. This nuanced movement ensures that every panel faces the sun as directly as possible throughout the day, further increasing energy yield.
- Reduced Need for Land Grading: By adapting to the natural terrain rather than requiring extensive leveling, taller terrain-flexible trackers reduce land disturbance and environmental impact, as well as construction costs and timelines. This flexibility allows for optimized layouts that maximize energy production without the expensive and time-consuming grading process.
- Energy Production Benefits vs. Fixed Systems: Overall, solar trackers, including those taller and flexible enough to handle uneven terrain, generally produce more energy than fixed-tilt systems because they keep panels oriented toward the sun throughout the day.
In summary, taller solar trackers on uneven terrain enable improved solar exposure by adjusting to the land’s contours and slopes. This design increases energy capture efficiency, reduces the need for grading, and thus supports higher energy production and lower installation costs compared to non-adjusting fixed systems or trackers not designed for rough terrain.
This innovation expands the range of suitable sites for solar development, including rugged or hilly locations previously considered impractical for solar farms.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-taller-solar-trackers-on-uneven-terrain-affect-energy-production/
