Evaluation of a Heliostat Tracker for Linear Fresnel Lens Photovoltaic Concentrators

摘要

This report presents the results of an evaluation of a heliostat tracking structure used as a two-axis tracking platform for ENTECH's linear focus Fresnel lens photovoltaic collectors. The study included the installation and operation of a heliostat tracker populated with 30 modules (1 operational and 29 non-operational) on a 32-ft x 32-ft platform. Details of the array installation, collector mounting, and array tracking accuracy are provided. Test results demonstrate that the heliostat tracker meets the performance requirements imposed by the collector. The evaluation includes a comparison of the heliostat tracker approach with the current tracker approach (a roll/tilt array). Results of the comparison do not identify a clearly superior option. (ERA citation 12:020203)