Advise wanted for a first timer in MD Maryland

[billyrock]

I want a tracker because of limited space. I have a bid from a contractor for a 4.4kw system consisting of {16} 275 watt modules on a single axis tracker using a 5kw Delta power inverter. The bid for the 12.0 kw system is 22,800 dollars. Does anyone have any thoughts on this? What kind of questions should I be asking perspective contractors about this? Thanks, Ryan

[Sunking]

You should be asking how much for 400 watt more in panels on fixed tilt and orientation and do you have room for it. It will be a lot less expensive and do the same thing as a tracker.

[bcroe]

I want a tracker because of limited space. I have a bid from a contractor for a 4.4kw system consisting of {16} 275 watt modules on a single axis tracker using a 5kw Delta power inverter. The bid for the 12.0 kw system is 22,800 dollars. Does anyone have any thoughts on this? What kind of questions should I be asking perspective contractors about this? Thanks, Ryan

I don't know why you call it a 12.0 KW system. But I calculate $5.18 per watt (of DC capacity)
which is considerably over the $3 something of a stationary system.

A tracker will increase yield on sunny days, at big cost & increased maintenance. But it
will do nothing for you on cloudy days, how is your weather? With panels running only
$.75 per watt, you could considerably increasing the number of panels for a yield over that
of a tracker system. AND that increase will apply to yields on cloudy days as well. This
approach makes most sense with string connected arrays, which will allow more panels
without extra expense elsewhere. Cost will be higher with micro converters. Bruce Roe

[Mike90250]

he's got no space for more panels. But what about pole or ground mounts ?

[+3 Golfer]

he's got no space for more panels. But what about pole or ground mounts ?

Increase watts per panel.

[inetdog]

he's got no space for more panels. But what about pole or ground mounts ?

16 panels on one single axis tracker?? Pretty big array to swing!
If the array is split up into several tracker panels, then the required spacing between them to avoid shading issues morning and evening could well take up more ground space than a fixed array with more panels.
I would need to see an actual plot plan with more details to agree that a tracker made sense for the OP.

[bcroe]

16 panels on one single axis tracker?? Pretty big array to swing! If the array is split up into several tracker panels, then the required spacing between them to avoid shading issues morning and evening could well take up more ground space than a fixed array with more panels. I would need to see an actual plot plan with more details to agree that a tracker made sense for the OP.

AMEN! Bruce