What are the design variables of a single-axis photovoltaic plant?

This paper presents an optimisation methodology that takes into account the most important design variables of single-axis photovoltaic plants, including irregular land shape, size and configuration of the mounting system, row spacing, and operating periods (for backtracking mode, limited range of motion, and normal tracking mode).

How are horizontal single-axis solar trackers distributed in photovoltaic plants?

This study presents a methodology for estimating the optimal distribution of horizontal single-axis solar trackers in photovoltaic plants. Specifically, the methodology starts with the design of the inter-row spacing to avoid shading between modules, and the determination of the operating periods for each time of the day.

How to design a photovoltaic system?

This consists of the following steps: (i) Inter-row spacing design; (ii) Determination of operating periods of the P V system; (iii) Optimal number of solar trackers; and (iv) Determination of the effective annual incident energy on photovoltaic modules. A flowchart outlining the proposed methodology is shown in Fig. 2.

What Solar Tracking designs were used in engineering analysis?

Engineering Analysis was performed on two different solar tracking designs. The solar tracking designs considered were the “Rotisserie”, a single axis solar tracker, and the “TIE Fighter”, a dual axis solar tracker. The dimensions of the solar panels are 56.1in. X 25.7in. X 2.3in. and each individual panel weighs 28lbs.

How efficient is a dual axis solar tracker?

Solar panels adjust to these angles to optimize the amount of sunlight absorbed by the photovoltaic cells. The dual axis solar tracker is a more efficient machine, however, its efficiency compared to the single axis tracker is minimal, a mere 3-8% increase in efficiency. Engineering Analysis was performed on two different solar tracking designs.

Does single-axis solar tracking reduce shadows between P V modules?

In this sense, this paper presents a calculation process to determine the minimum distance between rows of modules of a P V plant with single-axis solar tracking that minimises the effect of shadows between P V modules. These energy losses are more difficult to avoid in the early hours of the day.