A solar tracker is a device that orients a solar panel or array toward the sun to maximize energy output. By tracking the movement of the sun throughout the day, solar trackers can significantly increase the energy production of a solar power system compared to fixed solar panels. There are two main types of solar trackers: single-axis and dual-axis trackers.

1. Single-Axis Solar Trackers: These trackers move the solar panels either from east to west or from north to south, following the sun’s daily east-to-west movement. They can be either horizontal, where the panels rotate on a single horizontal axis, or tilted, where the panels adjust their tilt angle to track the sun.
2. Dual-Axis Solar Trackers: These trackers can move in two directions, both east to west and north to south, allowing for precise solar panel orientation throughout the day. They adjust both the azimuth (horizontal direction) and the elevation (tilt angle) of the panels to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.

Solar trackers typically use sensors, motors, and a controller to adjust the position of the solar panels. The sensors detect the sun’s position, and the controller processes this information to calculate the optimal orientation for the solar panels. The motors then move the solar panels accordingly to ensure that they are always facing the sun at the most effective angle.

While solar trackers can significantly increase the energy output of a solar power system, they also come with some drawbacks, including increased initial costs, additional maintenance requirements, and potential mechanical complexity. The decision to use solar trackers depends on factors such as the location, available space, energy requirements, and budget of the solar project. When properly designed and maintained, solar trackers can provide a substantial boost to the overall efficiency and output of a solar power system.