Field-dataset-based and PVGIS simulation-based comparative assessment of fixed-tilt, single-axis, and dual-axis photovoltaic systems: Dhaka–Sivas case study

Photovoltaic (PV) output is governed by solar irradiance, cell temperature, electrical operating point, and the incidence angle of incoming solar radiation, each of which is affected differently by fixed-tilt, single-axis, and dual-axis mounting configurations. This study presents a comparative, three-stage performance assessment of these three configurations, combining field measurements, annual PVGIS simulations, MPPT sensitivity analysis, and a techno-economic screening. Solar-tracking mechanisms increase the plane-of-array irradiance captured by the module surface, whereas maximum power point tracking (MPPT) improves electrical energy extraction by forcing the PV generator to operate near its maximum power point. The first stage analyzes a six-month field dataset measured in Dhaka, Bangladesh, between January and June 2025; the second and third stages use PVGIS-based annual simulations to compare the same configurations for Dhaka and Sivas, Türkiye. The Dhaka field dataset contains 2880 records at 30-minute intervals and includes irradiance, temperature, voltage, current, and power measurements for fixed and tracking PV systems. The field results show that the dual-axis tracking system generated 2066.20 Wh compared with 1184.30 Wh for the fixed system, corresponding to a 74.48% energy gain. Annual simulations indicate single-axis and dual-axis tracking gains of 21.13% and 31.97% in Dhaka and 18.44% and 32.90% in Sivas, respectively. A sensitivity-based MPPT analysis is included to distinguish mechanical tracking gain from converter-control gain, and a levelized-cost screening indicates that single-axis tracking can be economically favorable under benchmark cost assumptions, while dual-axis tracking requires careful cost and maintenance evaluation. The field-based findings are reported together with two candid instrumentation limitations, namely the use of a shared ambient-temperature sensor for both PV systems and the influence of the battery charge controller on the panel operating voltage, which are discussed in Section 6.