Usage of solar trackers to improve efficiency of PV systems

Abstract

The thesis considers the usage of solar trackers as the way to increase efficiency of PV systems in a decentralized area in the south-eastern part of Russia. Implementation of solar trackers is presented in the case study of the thesis. The case study examines three possible technical solutions to power supply the object of investigation: a petroleum based generator power plant; optimally tilted PV system in assembly with the petroleum generator; PV system in assembly with a dual-axis solar tracker and a petroleum generator. In order to determine the power output of PV systems, the technique which allows to calculate the total solar radiation falling on the plane oriented in any direction is used. The considered variants are evaluated from both technical and economic points of view. The net present value and minimum electricity price are the main indicators for economic evaluation. The sensitivity analysis on most important parameters is conducted.

The thesis considers the usage of solar trackers as the way to increase efficiency of PV systems in a decentralized area in the south-eastern part of Russia. Implementation of solar trackers is presented in the case study of the thesis. The case study examines three possible technical solutions to power supply the object of investigation: a petroleum based generator power plant; optimally tilted PV system in assembly with the petroleum generator; PV system in assembly with a dual-axis solar tracker and a petroleum generator. In order to determine the power output of PV systems, the technique which allows to calculate the total solar radiation falling on the plane oriented in any direction is used. The considered variants are evaluated from both technical and economic points of view. The net present value and minimum electricity price are the main indicators for economic evaluation. The sensitivity analysis on most important parameters is conducted.