Solar trackers are ingenious devices designed to orient solar panels in sync with the sun's trajectory throughout the day. While commonly seen in large-scale commercial setups, they're less frequent in household installations due to their bulkiness, weight, and maintenance demands.

In the UK, solar trackers play a crucial role in optimizing energy capture at utility-level solar farms and industrial complexes. These trackers ensure panels remain aligned with the sun, maximizing efficiency and output.

How Do Solar Trackers Operate?

At their core, solar trackers function by dynamically repositioning solar panels to match the sun's movement. This mechanism reduces the angle of incidence—the angle at which sunlight strikes the panel surface. A smaller angle allows for more precise and efficient energy absorption, leading to enhanced power generation. When sunlight hits the panel directly, the energy yield is significantly higher.

Modern solar trackers leverage sophisticated technology to achieve this. Some models rely on software that predicts the sun's path based on astronomical data. Others incorporate solar sensors that respond in real-time to the sun's movement. However, sensor-based trackers might face challenges in cloudy weather or during sunrise when sunlight visibility is limited.

Types of Solar Trackers

There are several varieties of solar trackers, each tailored to specific needs and environments. Here's a closer look:

1. Manual Solar Trackers

Manual trackers represent the simplest form of solar tracking systems. They require manual adjustments to align the panels with the sun. Since they lack motors or sensors, these trackers depend entirely on human intervention. Although less costly to set up, they demand regular maintenance and are far less efficient compared to automated systems. The absence of advanced machinery also means lower maintenance requirements, though the need for human oversight remains a downside.

2. Passive Solar Trackers

Passive trackers operate using a gas fluid that expands and contracts in response to temperature changes. As the fluid heats up, it moves the tracker to face the sun. Unlike active trackers, passive ones don't require electricity or complex electronics, making them easier to maintain. However, their precision is lower, and they may not be as effective in certain climates or conditions. Passive trackers strike a balance between affordability and functionality, making them ideal for medium-sized solar projects where complete automation isn't essential.

3. Active Solar Trackers

Active trackers are the most advanced and widely used in modern solar installations. Equipped with motors and control systems, they use GPS or light sensors to track the sun with remarkable accuracy. Despite their higher price tag and more intricate design, active trackers deliver superior performance, especially in large-scale operations where the added investment can lead to significant energy gains. Active trackers can be categorized into two subtypes:

4. Single-Axis Trackers

Single-axis trackers move along one axis, typically aligned north-south. This allows them to follow the sun's path from east to west throughout the day. They are relatively straightforward and cost-effective, making them popular in many commercial solar farms.

5. Dual-Axis Trackers

Dual-axis trackers, on the other hand, adjust both horizontally and vertically. This enables them to track the sun's position not only throughout the day but also across different seasons. By accounting for both daily and annual variations in the sun's path, dual-axis trackers maximize energy capture year-round.

Applications of Solar Trackers

In the UK, solar trackers find their primary use in large-scale commercial and industrial settings rather than residential properties. Their size and expense make them impractical for most home installations, but they shine in utility-scale solar farms, agricultural projects, and research facilities.

1. Utility-Scale Solar Farms

The UK's largest solar farm, Shotwick Solar Park in Flintshire, Wales, spans 250 acres and boasts a capacity of 72.7 MW. Such installations utilize tracking systems to ensure maximum energy yield by keeping panels optimally aligned with the sun. These farms contribute significantly to the national grid, providing clean energy to countless homes and businesses.

2. Commercial and Industrial Facilities

Large enterprises often opt for expansive rooftop or ground-mounted solar arrays. Here, solar trackers help enhance overall energy production, reducing reliance on traditional power sources. Advanced monitoring systems allow companies to track their energy usage in real-time, promoting sustainability and cost savings.

3. Research and Experimental Installations

Solar trackers serve as valuable tools in solar research. Academic institutions use them to test new solar technologies, panel designs, and tracking methods. These studies provide insights into how solar trackers perform under the UK's unique climatic and geographical conditions, paving the way for future innovations.

Join the Solar Revolution!

Solar trackers offer numerous advantages, including improved energy efficiency and reduced operational costs. If you're considering joining the solar movement, contact us today to explore your options. Whether you're looking for a residential or commercial solution, our cutting-edge solar panels can help you transition to cleaner energy while maximizing your return on investment.