Shaded fraction and backtracking in single-axis trackers on rolling terrain

Anderson, Kevin S.; Jensen, Adam R.

doi:10.1063/5.0202220

Shaded fraction and backtracking in single-axis trackers on rolling terrain

Journal Article · Tue Apr 02 00:00:00 EDT 2024 · Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0202220· OSTI ID:2560950

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A generalized closed-form equation for the shaded collector fraction in solar arrays on rolling or undulating terrain is provided for single-axis tracking and fixed-tilt systems. The equation accounts for different rotation angles between the shaded and shading trackers, cross-axis slope between the two trackers, and offset between the collector plane and axis of rotation. The validity of the equation is demonstrated through comparison with numerical ray-tracing simulations and remaining minor sources of error are quantified. Additionally, a simple procedure to determine backtracking rotations for each row in an array installed on the rolling terrain (varying in the direction perpendicular to the tracker axes) is provided. The backtracking equation accounts for a desired shaded fraction (including complete shade avoidance) as well as an axis-collector offset. Test cases are provided to facilitate implementation of these equations.

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Sponsoring Organization:: USDOE

OSTI ID:: 2560950

Alternate ID(s):: OSTI ID: 2336641

Journal Information:: Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy, Journal Name: Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 16; ISSN 1941-7012

Publisher:: American Institute of PhysicsCopyright Statement

Country of Publication:: United States

Language:: English

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