A step change in solar PV generation

The UK is committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, requiring solar generation of at least 60GW p.a. (from 13GW today) (Aurora Energy, 2019). However, UK deployment of solar PV fell from 4GW to 0.4GW between 2015-2019 as a result of subsidy reductions, with a subsequent loss of 25% (2.4k) of jobs (STA, 2019). For the solar industry to thrive without subsidies, project economics need to improve (STA, 2019). Solar trackers - devices used to orient PV panels towards the sun - can significantly improve project economics by increasing energy yields and the average price of electricity achieved. However, existing solutions are predominantly 'single-axis trackers' (track the sun in one direction) and are most effective at lower latitudes (below c.40 degrees latitude) where the sun's elevation does not vary significantly between seasons. The few 'dual-axis trackers' systems that do exist are expensive and remain a niche market. We have developed a hybrid tracking system that optimises solar tracking for a significantly reduced cost. This project will be used to build on our existing prototype, to implement a series of design changes and test the new systems on live client sites.