Technology is at the heart of the explosion of solar power as a viable energy source in recent decades, and it continues to improve in ways that offer solar customers multiple options for their needs. One great example is the relatively recent advent of what are known as rotating solar panels (also called solar trackers or a sun tracking system), which are now often an option for clients in addition to traditional fixed solar panels.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to offer the very best commercial and residential solar power services you'll find across Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, including solar panel installation using various solar panel options. Here are some of the basics on how fixed solar panels compare with these newer rotating systems, some of the pros and cons of each setup, and how to choose the ideal one for your solar power needs.

What is a Fixed Solar Panel?

You're likely already familiar with fixed solar panels, also known as stationary solar panels. These are the most common option today, used for a majority of solar setups. As the name suggests, these are panels that remain in a fixed position and do not move or rotate to track the sun's movement. They are typically installed at a specific angle and orientation based on the location and climate of your home.

Fixed solar panels have been around for decades and have been the traditional choice for residential solar power systems. They come in various shapes and sizes, with most made up of multiple photovoltaic (PV) cells connected together to harness the sun's energy.

What is a Rotating Solar Panel

Also known as solar tracking systems, rotating solar panels are an emerging technology in the solar industry. As the name suggests, these panels move or rotate to follow the sun's movement throughout the day. This allows them to maximize their exposure to sunlight and generate more electricity compared to fixed solar panels.

Rotating solar panels use sensors and motors to track the sun's position and adjust accordingly. They can rotate both horizontally and vertically, ensuring optimal positioning for maximum energy production.

Benefits of Fixed Solar Panels

There are a few direct benefits of using fixed solar panels, including:

• Cost-effective: Fixed solar panels are typically less expensive than their rotating counterparts, making them a more budget-friendly option for homeowners and businesses.
• Low maintenance: Since fixed solar panels do not have any moving parts, they require minimal maintenance and are less prone to damage or breakdowns.
• Easy installation: The installation process for fixed solar panels is relatively simple and straightforward, requiring minimal time and effort.
• Generally no volume issues: In the vast majority of cases, fixed solar panels are easily able to generate sufficient electricity to cover the energy needs of a household or business. As such, there are typically no concerns about volume limitations.
• Less affected by weather conditions: Fixed solar panels are less affected by inclement weather conditions such as high winds or heavy rain, as they are securely attached to the roof or ground. This makes them a more reliable source of energy compared to their rotating counterparts that may be more susceptible to damage from strong winds.
• Aesthetically pleasing: Fixed solar panels can blend seamlessly into the design of a building's architecture and can even enhance its appearance with sleek and modern designs. They also come in various colors and styles, allowing for customization to match personal preferences.

Benefits of Rotating Solar Panels

While the initial cost of rotating solar panels may be higher, they offer several advantages that make them a worthwhile investment. Some benefits include:

• Higher energy output: As mentioned earlier, rotating solar panels can generate more electricity since they are able to follow the sun's movement throughout the day. This means that even during peak sunlight hours, these panels can produce maximum energy output.
• Increased efficiency: Traditional fixed solar panels can lose up to 30% of their potential energy production due to shading from surrounding objects or less than optimal tilt and orientation towards the sun. Rotating solar panels minimize these losses by constantly adjusting their position for maximum exposure to sunlight.
• Better use of space: Fixed solar panels require a larger amount of space to be installed, as they need to be placed at specific angles and orientations for optimal performance. On the other hand, rotating solar panels can be mounted on poles or tracking systems that take up less space and can be installed in areas with limited land availability. This makes them a more viable option for urban or densely populated areas.
• Versatility: Fixed solar panels are typically designed to face one direction, which limits their ability to generate electricity during different times of the day. However, rotating solar panels can track the movement of the sun throughout the day, generating electricity from sunrise to sunset. They are also able to adjust their angle and orientation based on seasonal changes in sunlight patterns, making them more versatile and efficient.

When choosing between the two, you'll want to evaluate your specific needs and consider the potential benefits of each type for your location. 

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to help you determine the best solar panel option for your home or business. In most cases, fixed solar panels will be the best choice for homeowners and businesses. However, there can be occasional situations where rotating panels might be the right choice. If you feel this may be the case for you, reach out to us at your convenience.

Contact us today for solar panel installation or other solar power services around SLC, Utah or Boise, Idaho areas.