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 does a PV tracking system work?

The tracking system is driven by a single engine. The P V modules rotate from East to West on a horizontal axis, following the Sun’s daily movement. This configuration has a limited range of motion angle (β max). This range depends on the manufacturer. Typical values are β max = ± 60 (°) .

Do solar tracking mounting systems have a shading phenomenon?

In the design of P V plants composed of mounting systems without a solar tracker (e.g. ), it is essential to study the shadows produced between the rows of mounting systems. In contrast, in this study, when considering solar tracking mounting systems with backtracking movement, the shading phenomenon will never occur.

Can solar tracking algorithm be determined between P V modules?

As the current study uses mounting systems with horizontal single-axis tracker configuration, the shading study between P V modules is different, and the determination of the solar tracking algorithm was not the subject of the previous study.

Which mounting system configuration is best for granjera photovoltaic power plant?

The optimal layout of the mounting systems could increase the amount of energy captured by 91.18% in relation to the current of Granjera photovoltaic power plant. The mounting system configuration used in the optimal layout is the one with the best levelised cost of energy efficiency, 1.09.

Which axis tracking system is used in large-scale P V plants?

In practice, the horizontal single-axis tracking system is the most commonly used . Because to the high utilisation of the horizontal single-axis tracking system in large-scale P V plants, the optimisation of its performance is a task of great importance.