But this array appears to be mounted on a very unique tracking system that actually suspends the modules.

Trackers (normally pole-mounted) turn their modules to face the sun at sunrise, and keep them aimed at the optimum angle to the sun all day. By the look of these shadows, this photo appears to taken in the late morning, and the suspended trackers appear to have the modules tilted appropriately.

image via Shutterstock

By midday, when the need for shelter from the sweltering Southern California sun is greatest, these Imperial Valley cattle would be able to cool off under a nearly horizontal “roof.” The effect of the added shade might even help keep down the hot dry dust, which – if you’ve ever driven past these huge cattle farms on the way to Los Angeles – you’d know, can be horrible.

Where I’d like to see this idea used is on a dairy farm where the cattle are grass-fed, such as around Petaluma in Northern California. In a situation like that, the rotating shade would help in growing grass to keep it nutritious and green longer through California’s hot dry summers, making solar shade into a win-win-win.

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