Key Benefits of the 77-Degree Stow for Solar Trackers
- Superior Hail Protection:
By tilting solar panels to a steep 77-degree angle, the tracker moves panels out of the direct line of hail impacts. This high tilt angle reduces the risk of hail damage, which is increasingly important due to rising frequency and costs of hail-related losses in solar installations. - Enhanced Wind Protection:
The 77-degree stow provides robust protection against heavy wind damage during severe weather events. The tracker can stow in either direction, regardless of wind speed or direction, which offers unprecedented flexibility and protection. - Energy Gain Compared to Active Stow Trackers:
This steep-angle stow offers all the advantages of passive wind stow systems, including an estimated 5% energy gain compared to active stowing mechanisms. This means the system not only protects but also improves energy yield efficiency during normal operation. - Integration with Smart Systems for Proactive Risk Mitigation:
The 77-degree stow works in concert with Array Technologies’ SmarTrack Hail Alert Response software and SkyLink tracker system, enabling proactive and reactive hail risk mitigation, enhancing the resilience of solar assets. - Durability and Mechanical Improvements:
New design features such as an updated bearing housing, larger gear rack, and an advanced damper enable the tracker to reliably achieve and maintain this steep angle, ensuring durability and long-term system reliability.
Summary Table of Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Hail Protection | Reduces direct hail impacts by tilting panels steeply at 77° |
| Wind Protection | Guards panels from heavy winds with bidirectional, high-angle stow |
| Increased Energy Efficiency | Up to 5% energy gain compared to active stow systems |
| Smart Risk Mitigation | Integrates with alert and tracking software for proactive response |
| Mechanical Durability | Enhanced components support steep tilt reliably |
Overall, the 77-degree stow capability represents a leap forward in protecting solar investments from extreme weather events, improving system longevity, and optimizing energy production for large-scale solar projects in hail- and wind-prone areas.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-the-77-degree-stow-for-solar-trackers/
