Optimal spacing of dual-axis trackers for concentrating photovoltaic systems

Yong Sin Kim, Roland Winston

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) is widely used to compare the cost of energy generation across technologies. In a utility-scale concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) system, the spacing of dual-axis trackers must be balanced with total energy harvested from modules to minimize LCOE. In this paper, a spacing method of dual-axis trackers in a CPV system is presented. Based on the definition of LCOE, a cost function is defined and optimized in terms of spacing related parameters. Various methods to estimate hourly direct normal irradiance (DNI) are investigated and m-by-n tracker array configurations to minimize the cost function are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication7th International Conference on Concentrating Photovoltaic Systems, CPV-7
Pages370-373
Number of pages4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2011
Externally publishedYes
Event7th International Conference on Concentrating Photovoltaic Systems, CPV-7 - Las Vegas, NV, United States
Duration: 2011 Apr 42011 Apr 6

Publication series

NameAIP Conference Proceedings
Volume1407
ISSN (Print)0094-243X
ISSN (Electronic)1551-7616

Other

Other7th International Conference on Concentrating Photovoltaic Systems, CPV-7
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityLas Vegas, NV
Period11/4/411/4/6

Keywords

  • Concentrating photovoltaic
  • capacity factor
  • dual-axis tracker
  • ground coverage ratio
  • self-shading
  • spacing

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physics and Astronomy(all)

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