The setup cost payback times of 1 kW fixed and dual axis tracking solar energy systems

In this paper an 80 W optimally tilted fixed solar energy system and an 80 W azimuth-altitude dual solar axis tracking system are designed and analyzed. The systems are mounted on the roof an industrial building in Sakarya, Turkey. The fixed solar energy system is tilted at the yearly optimum tilt angle for the city. The tracking system is designed to follow the Sun's position by means of solar mathematics. The electrical behavior of the systems are observed for six months and the obtained results are used to evaluate the setup cost payback times of 1 kW applications. In conclusion it is determined that the fixed solar energy system pay back its setup cost in 7.18 years and the tracking solar energy system in 10.73 years.