Financial benefits of integrating east–west fixed, single and dual axes tracking PV systems in the supply mix of a South African Research Campus

Abstract

The use of Photovoltaic (PV) systems in distribution networks has increased in the past few years. The benefits of PV systems connected to the grid include reducing the carbon footprint, improving energy access, and security as well as the management of demand. The cost of PV systems has dropped rapidly in recent years, and the trend is expected to continue in future making this clean technology more attractive economically. This paper presents three different PV systems (single axis tracker, dual axis tracker and fixed rooftop) connected to the grid. Data measured over a period of a year are used in the analysis to quantify the benefits of such systems for a South African commercial entity. The results show considerable benefits attributable to the use of various PV system configurations. The outcomes of this work illustrate that the various configurations examined could result in significant benefits for industrial and commercial entities in cost reductions and addressing environmental issues.