Dual-Axis Solar Tracker VS Ground Mount

In this video, I'm comparing the power generation of a dual-axis solar tracker with a fixed ground-mounted solar system. I'll show you exactly how many additional solar panels you need to add to a ground mount system to match the output of a tracking setup. Plus, I’ll break down the costs so you can see which option is more budget-friendly.

We’ll start by looking at a popular solar tracker that can hold six 100W panels, giving us a total of 600W. This will be Test A. For Test B, I’ve set up a 600W fixed ground mount system, optimized for winter since that’s when solar generation is typically at its lowest.

I’ll also show you the difference in performance across various locations, from Anchorage, Alaska, to the equator. The further north you go, the more pronounced the benefits of solar tracking, but there are also challenges like freezing that could impact the system.

Finally, I’ll share my thoughts on whether a solar tracker or a fixed ground mount system is the better choice for most off-grid setups. While trackers offer increased efficiency, the simplicity, reliability, and lower cost of a fixed ground mount often make it the more practical option.

[MatthewYBarbo]

Thanks for taking the time to break down some research with all of us. I believe there are a lot of people out there that are always trying to make the determination between trackers and ground mounts. I found this very interesting!

[GREATDANE]

California High Desert gets Crazy Winds Randomly so a Sturdy Ground Mount Rack is Preferred - Thank You for the Video 🤙🏆

[stevewhite]

I have had my eye on system like that for meay years the only thing holding me back was the fact that I couldn't find any information about the longevity of said system. I did hear one guy in a forum say he wasn't going to get one after his second sun chaser failed on him. Saying that both together didn't last him 7 years. That would get expensive fast 😮 once again you knocked it out of the park... 👍

[benjamindrew]

Definitely love your videos! They’ve been extremely helpful, so helpful when in fact, I went ahead and ordered your book.

[robguyatt]

I did this using excel a few years ago. Just based it on the equinox. Result was just under 30%. The cost of the tracking system in my case would be very little since I started out as a boilermaker welder and these days I run a small mechatronics business. Got all bases covered. LOL.

[kuntazulu]

Awesome! You just saved me $$$ and time. Thank you...

[NunoLeitaoTheEpiq]

Generally speaking, I agree. U just forgot to add the added cost of a bigger system on the fixed mount; more mppts or bigger inverter due to the higher output.

[twigoftheforest]

I live off grid. I'm considering a tracker because even though it may be more expensive than adding a solar panel, I do not think I will need additional batteries to store the energy for later use. Instead in the afternoons I can get the most sun from the west so I only need enough battery to last me overnight. Right now I can use my solar panels in their prime hours no problem without drawing the battery. My thought is that at the end of the day my batteries are "topped off" for the night. Right now they are stationary and once you get passed 2 or 3pm I start drawing battery and by night time the batteries need to be charged with the generator. (in summer when I'm running the AC all day anyways 😅)

[brushbum]

Good Afternoon ! Thank You. TAKE CARE..

[gonjiskyfire]

Anchorage, Alaska... freeze on the solar panel then put a permanent heat pad on the solar panel's back then use home's electronics for a short time and a melt freeze will fix the problem.

[douglasrobbie]

Your percentages are off, as it appears you are dividing by the wrong number. The first instance for Houston, the tracking system produced 37% more power than the fixed system for the same 6 panels. You are taking the difference and dividing by the tracking system power produced. You should be dividing the difference by the fixed system power produced. Same thing goes for Anchorage. The additional number of panels needed on fixed system to match tracking system appears correct.

[clehaxze]

I still need some trackers. It's not about how much power I get in total, but when I get the power. With pure south facing fixed panels. I start using my battery earlier then if I have a tracker system. Likewise, I start getting enough power to cover the load later.

[saleemnasir]

Trackers are good but not for windy areas.

[texling]

Great information. I'm East of Houston and still experimenting with solar, so not permanent installation yet. I've mounted 2- 400 watt bifacial panels on 2x4 wood rack with wheels. I built 4 racks with 2 panels each. I have been facing east in the morning and west in the afternoon around 2:00PM. I'm retired so if I am home I flip the rack over. If I will be gone for day or more, I face panels south. When I am able to flip panels over I get over 20kw a sunny day. Facing south I get around 12-14kw. Have you seen any solar setup for east and west? I know some people might say too much trouble flipping panels. But being retired no problem, takes 3 min. just enjoying experimenting.

[foxtrotunit]

Awesome video, thanks a lot. I've totally changed my opinion on trackers.
*I have an unrelated question:*
In winter when it snows,
I assume panels don't produce power.

Is it worth it to have some sort of mechanism to clear off the snow every 10mins automatically?
Like a automatic gate mechanism, but instead of a sliding gate it's a brush that removes snow.
Should work in the winter pretty well, better than climbing up there to clear snow manually right?

[devera]

What about the probability of damage from hail?

[TyBeckwith-ne]

Hi Nick, I have just set up a stand alone system with 6 12v 190amp lead acid batteries in parallel to a 12v 2500w inverter with a PL60 charge controller. I’ve use two old roof top solar panels 310w to charge them. I get plenty of sun hours but the batteries are always too low in the morning to run a 2000w toaster or kettle. Would I be better getting a 24v or 48v inverter and connect the batteries in series?

[waynehobbs]

How much energy does the tracker consume please?

[sleepingbear]

Good video, but maintenance he makes it a deal breaker.. actirvaters Go out can be replaced 46 dollars Amazon. Only other part is computer running it. And no reports on failers. (From my research) 30% adds up. Takes less space, looks Cool (fun to watch 😊) i got on sale 350 big reason made jump 550 is little high my opinion. Ill make video on some day? God bless and enjoy the day!

[NickWindham]

Why would you give the fixed system the worst case mount angle instead of the optimal angle for annual production??