Single Axis Solar Trackers from Scorpius Trackers in India, Introductory Video:
Scorpius Trackers, based out of Pune - India, is the manufacturer of Single Axis Solar Trackers that automatically and continuously track the sun, and rotate solar panels to face the direction where sunlight exposure is maximum, from morning to evening. Solar trackers increases the energy generated (per panel) and hence decreases the land required for a solar plant project. The company claims that energy output over fixed PV increases by 18 - 25%, for a corresponding increase of 9 - 12% Capex per MW. I met the company officials during the recently concluded HYREX 2015 Renewable Energy exhibition at Hyderabad.
According to their brochure, their solar tracker system calculates the position of the sun using various algorithms and determines the optimum rotation angle every minute. It also adjusts the tracker tilt based on the Solar AZIMUTH, and back tracking tries to avoid shading of the rows of PV modules on the shaded side. When the tracker detects high wind speed it can reduce its presented cross section to the wind, hence reducing the force on the mechanical structure. This is called tracker stowing.
The tracking system can be operated using an AC source (Grid) or using the power generated by the Solar modules themselves. They say one 250W module is sufficient to power a 250 kW tracker block. Also, the integrated battery in the controller maybe sufficient for tracker movement for up to 5 days, in case of temporary non-availability of external power. The company says that the pay back on tracker investment is less than 3 years.
Scorpius Trackers manufactures single axis trackers with 100% frictionless pivots, no bearings, no bushes, no lubricants - hence reducing maintenance requirements. The solar trackers are mostly used in large solar plants, but can also be used for stand alone ground-mounted/roof-top installation like trackers for solar pumps.
Further Information/Company Website: Scorpius Trackers.
Disclaimer: This website is not associated with the above mentioned company in anyway. Readers are encouraged to do proper research and evaluation of both the company and their products before deciding to buy them. Information given here has been taken from their brochure/website and is subject to change anytime. Hence, refer to the company website for the latest information.
