Want to Know What Is a Sun Tracking Solar Panel? This Guide Can Help You!

Want to learn about a sun tracking solar panel? This blog will explain everything you need to know about this device. But before beginning, let’s understand what a solar panel does. 

Well, a solar panel collects energy from the sunlight and converts it into reusable energy. A sun-tracking solar panel typically does the same thing, but the only difference is that the tracker within these solar panels helps the device move in the sun’s direction. 

A sun tracking solar panel tracks the energy from the sun on the X or Y axis. Unlike static solar panels, they do not stay fixed at the same angle. Instead, they adjust themselves according to the direction of the sun’s rays. Amazing, isn’t it? 

If we piqued your interest, let’s enlighten you with more information. 

What Is a Sun Tracking Solar Panel? 

As discussed earlier, a sun tracking solar panel is not just a device but a solar energy optimisation solution that can extract the most energy from the sun. 

These solar panels bend or tilt in vertical and horizontal directions to generate maximum power. That’s not all! These solar panels also come in two-sided versions and can generate the most power from both sides. 

Undeniably, it is an effective invention in the solar industry for collecting maximum energy output from the sun. 

Types of Solar Tracking Panels 

Now, let’s move on to the two main types of sun-tracking solar panels: single-axis trackers and dual-axis trackers. 

Both these terms are self-explanatory as the single-axis trackers revolve in one axis while the other revolves in two axes. 

Let’s have a detailed understanding of these trackers. 

• Single-axis Tracker: This tracker moves in the sun’s direction throughout the day from east to west. The two-sided sun tracking solar panel with a single-axis tracker generates 35% more power than the static modules. 
• Dual-axis Tracker: On the other hand, this tracker moves from east to west and north to south. A two-sided sun tracking solar panel combined with a dual-axis tracker can generate 40% more power than static solar panels. 

In terms of efficiency, sun-tracking solar panels win the race over static solar panels. But as they say, the best things in life are expensive, and so are these tracking systems. 

So, if you’re planning to buy solar panels, you can purchase the one that best suits your needs and finances.

Functions of a Sun-Tracking Solar Panel 

We’ll now discuss how a sun tracking solar panel works to collect energy from the sunlight. While it is somewhat similar to how static solar panel modules work, it has some differences.  

The sun-tracking solar panels are placed perpendicular to the sun’s rays. This is the best angle to collect direct energy from the sun. 

When the sun’s rays fall on the solar panels, the panels absorb the energy and convert it into electric power for charging electronic appliances. 

Now, if you purchase double-sided sun-tracking solar panels, they additionally collect the light that is reflected from the ground. 

How? Well, because they are double-sided, they can absorb energy from the other end, so when the reflection happens, they take power from the other side. 

Another difference is that the sun tracking solar panel can move on the X or Y axis. The tracker determines the sun’s location using an algorithm that can track the sun. This algorithm is processed using computers. 

Benefits of Using a Sun Tracking Solar Panel

Planning to buy a sun tracking solar panel already? If yes, that’s great! But if you are still sceptical about whether to buy it or not, read its advantages stated below to make an informed decision. 

• As discussed, these solar panels have unbeatable efficiency and absorb more sunlight than others. 
• If you want to reduce electricity consumption in your household, this is the best choice as it can provide you with sufficient energy to power up your appliances. Hence, you’ll not require a lot of fossil-fuel-based electricity to charge your devices.  
• It is also a good choice for those who do not have or don’t want to use a huge space for installing solar panels but want the best energy output. 
• It is a great device to shift toward renewable energy consumption. 
• Due to their high efficiency, they are suitable for both small and big solar projects. 

Drawbacks of Using a Sun Tracking Solar Panel

Like other solar panels, a sun tracking solar panel also has a few drawbacks. Let’s learn about each of them! 

• The sun-tracking solar panels have less warranty period than fixed solar panels. 
• Since they have more moving parts than the conventional models, the installation and maintenance cost is slightly higher. 
• When it comes to durability, fixed solar panels are more durable than sun-tracking solar panels. 
• The components might require replacement after some time to ensure the high longevity of the sun tracking panels. 
• Unlike static solar panels, these panels get obsolete quickly. 

Consider these factors before purchasing to make the right investment. 

If you’re planning to buy these panels from a specific brand, you can contact the manufacturer and learn about the specifications, advantages, and disadvantages to make a good decision. 

Besides, sun-tracking solar panels might not be really needed for residential purposes. Invest wisely so that the money you invest breaks even sooner.

Conclusion 

Undoubtedly, sun-tracking solar panels have made it easier to get the most energy from the sun in a specific time. Besides, they top in terms of efficiency. They are expensive but for good reasons. 

So, if you can afford to buy these panels, you can go ahead with the purchase. Make sure to study the advantages and disadvantages before finalising your solar module. 

FAQs 

Q. What is the function of a single-axis sun tracking solar panel?

A single-axis sun tracking solar panel moves on the X or Y axis in the sun’s direction and absorbs efficient energy throughout the day. 

Q. What are the different types of sun tracking systems?

There are two types of sun tracking systems – single and dual-axis tracking systems. 

Q. Do sun-tracking solar panels come at affordable prices?

The sun-tracking solar systems have movable components that make them more expensive than rigid modules.