Investigation on Power Generation Valley of Single-Axis Tracking Arrays at a Solar PV Plant in Australia

Abstract

With the development of the photovoltaic (PV) technology, more large-scale solar PV plants are integrated to the power grid to relieve the traditional coal-based power plants and reduce the carbon emission. Compared with fixed-tilt (FT) arrays, single-axis tracking (SAT) arrays can produce more power yield. In terms of maintenance fee, SAT arrays are also cheaper than that of dual-axis tracking (DAT) arrays. Thus, SAT systems are becoming a cost-effective option for large-scale PV plant constructions. However, in an Australian PV plant, the power generation of SAT arrays exhibits an unusual phenomenon --"a valley of power generation" during the midday time. This paper aims to provide an insight about this phenomenon through comprehensive theoretical analysis. Three impact factors, i.e., temperature, tilt angle and incidence angle of direct irradiance to the panel are investigated which determine the power generation characteristics of SAT arrays. The findings of this study can provide valuable insights for PV owners/utilities to better understand the SAT operational behaviors and manage the demand response.

Operational Performance and Economic Analysis of Three PV Tracking Technologies in an Australian PV Plant

“…However, the capacity factor of SAT array experiences significant drop in autumn and winter, which causes it to have energy yields close to that of the FT arrays. This observation, which is especially obvious in the winter, can be explained by the power valley phenomenon as a result of the SAT incident angle variation patterns discussed in [20]. The DAT array has slightly lower yields as compared to the SAT array during the spring and summer.…”

A feasibility study of the 1.5-axis tracking model in utility-scale solar PV plants

“…The positional angles of the PV panel and the Sun are expressed in mathematical terms to establish the tracking model. The mechanical structure for the implementation of the 1.5AT system has been proposed in [13]. To promote an easier understanding of this 1.5AT mechanical system, an equivalent model of the 1.5AT system is presented in Fig.…”

“…The 1.5-axis tracking (1.5AT) technology is an innovative solution to minimize the associated SAT power loss without resorting to a more expensive DAT system [13]. Several demonstrator installations and small-scale commercial projects of the 1.5AT system are implemented in the United Arab Emirates.…”