The “dynamic stabilization” design feature permits the tracker position to be changed depending on real-time, sensor-observed environmental conditions. Beyond simply adjusting tilt, the new tracker incorporates control over the damping and stiffness of the array, permitting increased energy output, structural integrity and lower cost, the company says.
The new TechTrack Distributed also incorporates SunLink’s Vertex Project Intelligence Platform that enables next-generation real-time data monitoring and secure remote control, which provides greater visibility into energy assets, historical data collection and more efficient O&M – resulting in more valuable energy projects, the company adds.
“We’re very excited about this revolutionary design,” says SunLink CEO Michael Maulick. “It reflects the very best of SunLink’s legacy for mechanical and structural engineering excellence combined with the leadership we’re now demonstrating in the software and electrical engineering arenas. Only by leveraging the power of technology advancements such as IoT, big data, machine learning and more, can the solar industry move beyond a niche energy player into a grid-enhancing asset, and become the world’s dominant energy source. TechTrack Distributed demonstrates what’s possible,” he says.
Other features of the TechTrack Distributed design include:
· Superior structural efficiency – Maximum system torque is reduced by 67 percent, resulting in a stronger, lighter and more cost-effective tracker.
· Increased power – Continuous tables and 120-degree tracking yield the industry’s best power density and generation.
· Reduced fieldwork – Terrain following of 10 percent grade N-S, any practical E-W and up to 5 percent change in grade post-to-post. Fewest posts to install of any comparable tracker.
· Wireless and self-powered – Integrated solar panel and Li+ battery power, robust slew drive and motor. Communication via secure, proprietary mesh network.
TechTrack Distributed is the second single-axis tracker in the company’s TechTrack product line, joining the internationally deployed TechTrack Centralized.
Unlike any other tracker provider on the market, SunLink also offers PowerCare installation and O&M services for TechTrack projects, making it possible for EPCs and developers to take on more projects successfully, points out Maulick. “SunLink’s full-scope approach makes us a better partner,” adds Maulick. “We’re able to introduce dynamically-designed products that perform better and cost less plus install them more efficiently and with higher quality results. We also can maintain them more intelligently and ultimately help our customers build larger portfolios of projects with better energy production and economic returns.”
The new tracker and the other SunLink solar project solutions will be on display at Solar Power International, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from September 12-15.
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