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I'm not sure I understand your statement that tracking solar panels aren't viable. The vast majority of utility scale solar PV installations in the United State

I'm not sure I understand your statement that tracking solar panels aren't viable. The vast majority of utility scale solar PV installations in the United States use single axis tracking systems. These orient the modules on a north south axis, which then tilts from east to west throughout the day. Energy capture over an equivalent optimized fixed-tilt system is significant. The land area required is larger, however. Most smaller or behind the meter systems such as carports or rooftop mount solar use fixed tilt, and fixed tilt is also used in certain types of terrain or where costs for tracking are prohibitive.

deleted 4y ago
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Retric 4y ago
Yes single axis tracking are common, but dual axis racking isn’t. Horizontal Single-Axis Solar Tracker’s are normally aligned north south, but shifting slightly off axis from pure north vs south can increase output in the morning or evening. Tilted Single-Axis Solar Tracker’s are closer to the performance of dual Axis trackers, but have a similar question do you pick a tilt angle to maximize annual, summer, or winter output.