Allen,
Congratulations on your purchase. That sounds like a very nice addition to your system.
Trackers will add to the cost and complexity of your setup. As has been pointed out, they aren't install it and forget it.
I'd suggest first setting the new panels up without trackers. See what kind of average you get over a few months. Use that time to explore tracker options in more detail. I've even seen some used units for sale on eBay. New ones aren't cheap - if they are made to last.
Plan B might be to have your panels seasonally adjustable. You'd go out and change the angle three or four times a year to match the Sun's arc in the sky. It could probably even be partially automated with those electric actuators like they use on the older large satellite dishes. You can buy those on eBay too.
Another idea is to split your system up. Have some of the panels angled to favor morning Sun and the others optimally angled for afternoon Sun. They'd all probably still get some Sun throughut the day, but it might increase the daily average. You know - experiment.
Trackers will increase the power you get, but it will take more time to write off the additional cost. Does your state offer an alternative energy tax credit. That would help.
I'm envious of your system. Solar panels are probably the best way to go for alternative energy. I just wish the initial cost wasn't so high.
Bach On
-
-
I'm not superman, but I am very dense! -