Other aspects of installing solar energy go to the decisions one must make, including how to mount the system. Between various options available, installed solar mounting systems can be broadly categorised as either fixed-tilt or tracking-type solar systems. 

Both have their unique advantages, and the decision of which is best for you depends on a number of factors like location, budget, energy needs, and kind of installation (residential or commercial).

We are going to break down the differences between these two types of mounting systems, focusing on the main benefits, limitations, and which system might best fit your solar energy goals in this blog.

What Are Fixed-Tilt Solar Mounting Systems?

A fixed-tilt mounting system for solar applications is a simple, stationary system wherein the panels are mounted at a fixed angle, thereby adjusting the optimum angle of your region to maximise sun exposure. Normally, fixed angles are at set positions and the panels stay there irrespective of the movement of the sun.

Advantages in fixed-tilt solar mounting systems:

• Lower Initial Costs: The installation of fixed-tilt systems is relatively less expensive than that of tracking systems. There are no complicated motors and moving parts in the case of a tracking system installation.
• Reliability: Owing to the involvement of relatively fewer moving parts, the fixed-tilt systems are considered to be more robust and require minimal maintenance. It reduces wear and tear over time and thus has a longer life.
• Simplicity: Installation is very simple; therefore, suitable for residential buildings and small commercial to medium sizes. There is minimal hardware and associated parts. Therefore, it is relatively easy to choose for anyone new to purchasing solar.
• Works Well in Many Places: Since many regions around the world experience abundant sunlight throughout the year, a fixed tilt system will perform optimally, provided the panels are adjusted to the ideal tilt for the specific location.

Drawbacks of Fixed-Tilt Solar Mounting Systems:

• Less Efficient Energy Production: Since the panels are fixed, they do not track the sun during the day. This leads to less energy production than that of a tracking system, especially when the sun is not overhead at certain times of the day.
• Suboptimal for All Climate Conditions: While many regions globally benefit from favorable solar radiation climates, there are areas with seasonal sunshine where a fixed tilt system may not be the most efficient option for optimal performance.

What Are Tracking Solar Systems?

Solar trackers follow the movement of the sun throughout the day by moving the solar panels along its path in the sky. They may be one-axis or dual-axis trackers, where the former moves the panels only in one axis such as the north-south direction whereas the latter rotates both at the horizontal and vertical axes.

Advantages of Tracking Solar Systems

• Increased efficiency: Up to 25% more energy output compared to fixed-tilt systems. The solar panels would be provided with the optimal position at any time, for maximum exposure to sun rays.
• Suitable for Regions with High Variability in Sunlight: If your region experiences frequent weather changes or varying sun positions due to the time of year, a tracking system can adjust to these variations and maintain optimal efficiency.
• Higher Energy Yielding: If you want to generate maximal amounts of energy for a bigger commercial establishment or if you want to significantly reduce your energy prices, then tracking solar systems would be the most excellent choice.

Disadvantages of Tracking Solar Systems-

• Higher Initial Cost: Tracking systems are more expensive to purchase and install because they have advanced technology, motors, and moving parts. The added cost may not always be offset by the additional energy produced in smaller or residential installations.
• Increased Maintenance: Tracking systems contain moving parts and motors, which are subject to increased maintenance and repairs. These can be extra costs, and if the environment is tough, then wear and tear may be more prevalent.
• Intricately Installative: The installation process of tracking systems is relatively intricately and hence requires longer time to complete and more skilled labor. They find a better use in commercial applications and large installations.
• Space Needs: Since tracking systems can move, they usually need more space than fixed tilt systems. This can somewhat be a limiting factor, especially in working on a smaller roof or area of land.

Fixed vs. Tracking Solar Panels: Which is Best for You?

Having set the foundation, let’s dive into how these two systems differ in terms of specific use cases.

Residential Solar Solutions:

For most residential solar installations worldwide, fixed-tilt systems are the best option. They are more affordable to install, require minimal maintenance, and can still deliver strong performance, particularly in regions with consistent sunlight throughout the year. A fixed-tilt system is a reliable and efficient choice for homeowners seeking to reduce electricity costs without the complexity of more advanced systems.

Commercial Solar Solutions:

On the other hand, for commercial solar installations that require high energy output – such as large factories, office buildings, or farms – tracking solar systems may be a better option. Efficient up to 25%, efficiency can mean a lot when speaking about the longer term in terms of energy costs. While it is true that higher initial investment plus ongoing maintenance are needed, they have to be considered along with all the other options.

Location Considerations:

Location plays a crucial role in determining which solar system is best suited for your region. Areas with consistent sunlight year-round, such as those in the interior of Australia, are ideal for fixed-tilt systems. However, for coastal or high-latitude regions, where sunlight patterns vary more dramatically, tracking systems may be the key to maximizing the performance of your solar panels throughout the year.

Which System Should You Choose?

In the fight between fixed-tilt solar panels and tracking solar panels, there is no one-size-fits-all. Bottom line: If you‘re budget-conscious, if you have limited space, and want something reliable and easy to care for, a fixed-tilt solar mounting system is probably the way to go. For bigger commercial installations or those wanting to achieve the highest amount of energy generated without regard for cost, tracking solar systems will give you the biggest efficiency advantage, but these come at a higher price point and require more maintenance.

Finally, what will depend on which is the best choice for you to make will be your energy goals, budget, and installation site.So consider consulting a solar professional regarding an energy choice appropriate to your needs and conditions.

Are you ready to unlock the energy of the sun? Whichever it may be – whether it’s a fixed-tilt or a tracking system, now is a great time to invest in solar energy with Clenergy.