Why Not Mass-Produce Solar Panels With Tracking?
The use of solar panels to generate electricity has been on the rise in recent years, with many homeowners and businesses opting for solar energy as a cleaner and more sustainable energy source. While conventional solar panels are stationary, there are also solar panels that track the movement of the sun to optimize their efficiency. However, there are concerns about the viability of large-scale production of tracking solar panels. In this article, we'll look at the reasons why tracking solar panels may not be suitable for large-scale use, the energy consumption associated with them, and their overall cost-effectiveness.
Reasons for not large-scale producing tracking solar panels
One of the main reasons why tracking solar panels may not be suitable for large-scale production is their cost. Tracking solar panels are more complex and expensive to manufacture than fixed solar panels. They require specialized components such as motors and sensors to track the sun, adding to the overall cost of the panel. This increased complexity also makes them less reliable, with a higher probability of mechanical or electrical failures. This means that maintenance costs are also higher than those of conventional solar panels.
Another concern is the additional energy consumption associated with tracking solar panels. The tracking motors and sensors require electricity to operate, which would reduce the overall energy output of the panel. According to a study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), a tracking system consumes about 8% of the generated power. This means that while a tracking solar panel may produce more energy than a fixed panel in optimal conditions, it may not be cost-effective over the long term due to the additional energy costs.
Investment and Cost-Effectiveness
The investment required for a tracking solar panel system can be significantly more expensive than a fixed solar panel system. As mentioned, tracking solar panels are more costly to manufacture and require additional maintenance. The additional cost is reflected in the payback period and return on investment (ROI) for a tracking panel system. A study by the University of Massachusetts found that while tracking panels can produce more energy than stationary panels, they may not provide a sufficient financial return on investment. The study found that the incremental energy generated by tracking a panel system did not justify the additional investment required.
However, there are situations where tracking solar panels can be cost-effective. If the site where the panels are to be installed has limited space, but high energy demands, a tracking system may be the best option. Tracking systems can increase energy generation by up to 45% in certain areas of the world, making them an attractive option. In addition, some installations may require panels to be placed on rooftops or other locations with restricted exposure to sunlight, and in such cases, a tracking system may help maximize the energy output of the panels.
While tracking solar panels offer increased energy production, there are several reasons why they may not be suitable for large-scale use. The high cost of manufacturing and maintenance, as well as the additional energy consumption associated with tracking systems, may outweigh the benefits of increased energy output. However, in certain situations, such as when space is limited or energy demands are high, tracking solar panels may be more cost-effective than stationary panels. Overall, the decision to use tracking solar panels should be based on a case-by-case analysis of the energy needs and site conditions for the installation.