Do solar tracking systems improve the efficiency of photovoltaic modules?

Solar tracking systems (TS) improve the efficiency of photovoltaic modules by dynamically adjusting their orientation to follow the path of the sun. The target of this paper is, therefore, to give an extensive review of the technical and economic aspects of the solar TS, covering the design aspects, difficulties, and prospects.

How does a photovoltaic tracking system work?

This designed tracking system was experimentally tested using two photovoltaics. The photovoltaics are driven by a PIC microcontroller based on a tracking algorithm for economic and maximum power harvesting. The photovoltaics are arranged in the form of a triangle located opposite of each other.

What is a solar PV tracking system?

Trackers that are automatic as well as motorized have also been introduced in the progress of solar PV TS. A new generation of tracking systems appeared in the 1980 s, with the improvement of the sensor equipment in combination with electronics that can automatically turn the placed PV-modules to the right angle.

How to choose a solar tracker?

Certain criteria pertaining to the process of solar tracking, the investment made in the tracker’s construction and installation, the mechanical movement transmission system, and the structure of the solar PV system influence the choice of particular tracking technology .

What is a solar tracker system?

Solar tracker systems are designed and developed to increase the amount of solar radiation received by photovoltaic devices. This process is carried out by maintaining the optimum angle of the solar panel to produce the best power output , . Solar tracking systems have been used in numerous places worldwide.

How do solar tracking systems compare?

Consequently, the main metrics available in the literature for the comparison of solar tracking systems relate to aspects such as annual energy gain, which can be evaluated in terms of the power output ratio, local latitude, and solar radiation , .