Fixed PV Systems Degrade Slower Than Trackers

University of New South Wales researchers find east-west ground-mounted solar panels maintain durability better than moving systems.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Energy

Isometric editorial illustration of fixed-tilt solar panels arranged in rows, representing durable solar energy infrastructure. — University of New South Wales researchers report that fixed east-west solar configurations exhibit slower degradation rates than single-axis tracking systems. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is now a good time to prioritize hardware longevity over maximum energy output in solar systems?

University of New South Wales scientists have determined that east-west ground-mounted photovoltaic systems degrade at a slower rate than single-axis tracking systems. This study highlights how stationary configurations help mitigate thermal and photodegradation.

Why it matters

The findings suggest that east-west systems operate at lower module temperatures because they receive reduced irradiance, effectively extending equipment lifespan. This insight aids in selecting more durable solar infrastructure for long-term power generation.

Researchers developed a transient thermal model incorporating sky radiation to compare configurations. Field measurements confirmed performance data at test sites including Bungendore, New South Wales.

The players

University of New South Wales

An Australian public research university based in Sydney that is known for its extensive contributions to solar energy technology and photovoltaics.

Jundee gold mine

An industrial mining site in Western Australia that recently implemented a 16.9 MW solar installation using 342 Maverick units.

The details

By analysing simulated thermal conditions and field measurements, the team discovered that reduced exposure to UV light and high temperatures prevents accelerated aging. The study also validates the effectiveness of the Maverick solar system, which utilizes 90 panels per unit at a 10-degree tilt.

Monitoring data at the Bungendore test site was collected from September 2022 to June 2023.
Maverick technology was deployed at the Jundee gold mine in 2024.
Study findings were published on 22 October 2026.

The Big Picture

This study advances the theoretical understanding of solar degradation by providing a validated transient thermal model published within the IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics. The research challenges the reliance on standard tracking systems by proving the durability benefits of fixed-tilt installations.

These findings could influence the design of future commercial and residential solar installations to prioritise longer equipment lifespans. By opting for more durable, low-maintenance fixed-tilt systems, project operators may reduce long-term energy costs.

The takeaway

Selecting fixed-tilt solar systems over tracking variants can significantly reduce thermal stress on hardware over time. Property owners and project managers should consider these degradation metrics when planning solar investments to ensure maximum system longevity.