Performance and economic comparison of fixed and tracking photovoltaic systems in Jordan

Abstract This study aims at comparing the experimental performance and economic parameters of fixed and double–axis open–loop tracking PV grid–connected systems installed at the Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan. Both systems, having a nameplate capacity of 7.98 kWp each, monitored for one full year from February 9, 2014 to February 8, 2015. The performance analysis was conducted in terms of final yield and conversion efficiency, while the economic analysis investigates the payback period and internal rate of return, in addition to the electricity cost. The actual performance results show that the annual production of the tracking system is 31.29% higher than that of the fixed system. The annual conversion efficiency of the fixed system is 13.83%, while it is 13.85% for the tracking system. Although the temperature of modules is higher for the tracking system, this close match is contributed to the accumulation of dust on the fixed system, whereas the motion of the tracking system cleans out dust continuously. While the double-axis tracking system generates more energy than does the fixed system, the feasibility study over 20 years shows that the fixed PV system is more feasible in Jordan. The economic analysis of payback period, internal rate of return and electricity cost disclose that these parameters are in support of investment in fixed PV systems.