This disruptive PV tracking solution boasts higher energy output than 1 axis horizontal trackers and is said to brings cost effective tracking to decentralized PV plants. Image: HeliosLite

HeliosLite has developed a disruptive PV tracker based on a patent pending 1.5 axis kinetic capturing more energy than 1 axis horizontal trackers without sacrificing cost-effectiveness. This disruptive PV tracking solution boasts higher energy output than 1 axis horizontal trackers and is said to bring cost-effective tracking to decentralized PV plants. Field results attest to the energy boost versus fixed tilt and to the system’s robustness. The open back design and maximum power tracking algorithm make HeliosLite’s 1.5 axis tracker a perfect match with bifacial modules.

Problem

Maximizing power output (MWh/MWp) drives lower the cost of energy and can bring even more value to projects with coupled to diesel generators, with variable feed-in tariffs or storage. Dual axis trackers and inclined 1 axis trackers increase output with much lower power density (MWp/Hectare) but do not always decrease LCOE due to the marginal cost increase. Furthermore, decentralized PV plants and difficult project sites do not have access to modular and cost-effective tracking solutions.

Solution

HeliosLite has developed a PV tracker based on a patent pending 1.5 axis kinetic capturing more energy than 1 axis horizontal trackers without sacrificing cost-effectiveness. The self-powered controller includes a power sensor, battery back-up and wireless communication to enhance the solution’s simplicity and ruggedness. The tracking algorithm uses input from power sensor to achieve maximum energy output. As measured in a pilot project near Dubai, HeliosLite’s 1.5 axis trackers have produced 31% more energy during the 1st year of operations versus the on-site East-West structures with seasonal variation decreased two-fold. By producing more energy throughout the day, HeliosLite’s tracker allows developers to optimize the total PV system investment to achieve a lower cost of energy.

HeliosLite’s 1.5 axis trackers have produced 31% more energy during the 1st year of operations versus the on-site East-West structures with seasonal variation decreased two fold. Image: HeliosLite

Applications

HeliosLite’s 1.5 axis PV tracker solution addresses market segments starting from 4 kWp to multi-MWp projects where maximum energy output counts most (off-grid, hybrid, solar pumps, rural electrification, self-consumption projects with or without storage) and where current 1 axis horizontal tracking solutions are less cost-effective or not suitable (slopes, landfills, sandy soils, uneven terrains, snow regions, temporary installations…).

Platform

Wind tunnel tested and pre-certified under Eurocodes, each HeliosLite 1.5 axis tracker carries 12, 72 cell, PV panels driven independently or mechanically linked together in rows for a highly scalable tracking solution. The tilt angle can be optimized based on the project’s latitude by adjusting a single component. The system is said to be easy and quick to install without heavy lifting equipment. This movable tracker is compatible with multiple foundation solutions. Bifacial modules will be tested summer 2018.

Availability

Ready for delivery and can begin with benchmark trial projects from 24 kWp onwards.

The tracking algorithm uses input from power sensor to achieve maximum energy output. As measured in a pilot project near Dubai: Image HeliosLite