Dual-Axis Solar Tracker VS Ground Mount

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In this video, I'm comparing the power generation of a dual-axis solar tracker with a fixed ground-mounted solar system. I'll show you exactly how many additional solar panels you need to add to a ground mount system to match the output of a tracking setup. Plus, I’ll break down the costs so you can see which option is more budget-friendly.
We’ll start by looking at a popular solar tracker that can hold six 100W panels, giving us a total of 600W. This will be Test A. For Test B, I’ve set up a 600W fixed ground mount system, optimized for winter since that’s when solar generation is typically at its lowest.
Using PV Watts (pvwatts.nrel.gov) , a solar simulation tool, we’ll compare the annual energy production of these two setups. Spoiler alert: the dual-axis tracker generates 27% more power than the ground mount system. But how does that translate to real-world usage and costs?
I’ll also show you the difference in performance across various locations, from Anchorage, Alaska, to the equator. The further north you go, the more pronounced the benefits of solar tracking, but there are also challenges like freezing that could impact the system.
Finally, I’ll share my thoughts on whether a solar tracker or a fixed ground mount system is the better choice for most off-grid setups. While trackers offer increased efficiency, the simplicity, reliability, and lower cost of a fixed ground mount often make it the more practical option.