Solar Tracking System

Abstract

solar energy has become an increasingly important and popular renewable energy source. By usinga solar tracking system, we can produce an abundance of energy and improve the efficiency of solar panels. The solar panel\'s efficiency lies in its perpendicular proportionality with the sun\'s rays. Although cheaper options are also available, its installation charge is high. A prototype solar panel is discussedinthispaperbasedonthesun\'sraysasthe reason for itsdesignandconstruction.Arduinoisusedasthe main control circuit. As a result of the programming of this device, theLDRsensor,whenitdetectssunrays,willprovide direction to the Servo Motor in order to move the solarpanel. Consequently, the solar panel is positioned so that it can receive the maximum amount of sunlight.

Introduction

A solar tracking system is an advanced technology that optimizes the performance of solar energy systems by automatically adjusting the position of solar panels to follow the sun's movement across the sky. Unlike traditional fixed solar panels, which are positioned at a fixed angle, solar trackers enable the panels to maintain the optimal angle of incidence throughout the day, maximizing sunlight exposure and increasing energy production.

???? Key Components of a Solar Tracking System

1. Solar Panels: Composed of photovoltaic cells, these panels convert sunlight into electrical energy. In tracking systems, they are mounted on movable structures that adjust their position to follow the sun's path, ensuring optimal energy capture.

2. Servo Motors: These motors precisely control the movement of the solar panels, aligning them with the sun's position. They receive signals from a microcontroller based on input from sensors like Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs).

3. LDR Sensors: LDRs detect the intensity of sunlight from different directions. The data collected is sent to the microcontroller, which processes the information to determine the optimal position of the solar panel.

4. Microcontroller (e.g., Arduino): Acts as the central processing unit, controlling the movement of the solar panel based on input from light sensors and other components. It sends control signals to the motors to adjust the panel's orientation.

5. Block Diagram: Illustrates the basic functioning of a solar tracking system, showing how LDRs, microcontrollers, and motors work together to adjust the panel's position for maximum sunlight exposure.

? Benefits of Solar Tracking Systems

• Increased Energy Efficiency: Solar tracking systems can increase energy production by up to 30% or more compared to fixed solar panels by ensuring the panels are always aligned with the sun.

• Maximized Sunlight Exposure: The tracking mechanism ensures that the solar panels are perpendicular to the sun’s rays throughout the day, capturing more sunlight, especially during early morning and late afternoon hours.

• Improved Performance in Low-Light Conditions: Solar tracking systems maintain optimal angles even when sunlight is less direct, ensuring more consistent energy generation.

• Reduced Land Usage: By increasing energy capture in a smaller area, tracking systems can reduce the land area needed for solar installations, making them ideal for limited space.

????? Types of Solar Tracking Systems

• Single-Axis Tracking: Moves panels along one axis (usually east to west). This type is more reliable, longer-lasting, and generally more cost-effective than dual-axis systems.

• Dual-Axis Tracking: Moves panels on both horizontal and vertical axes for maximum sun exposure. This type can generate 45-50% more annual power than fixed panels but is more complex and may require higher maintenance.RatedPower

???? Global Applications and Case Studies

1. USA – NEXTracker: Installed single-axis tracking systems in a 200 MW solar farm, increasing energy output by approximately 25% compared to fixed systems.

2. India – Kamuthi Solar Power Plant: Part of one of the world’s largest solar farms, this project used both fixed and tracking systems, improving energy generation during early morning and late afternoon hours.

3. Germany – University Campus Tracker: A dual-axis solar tracker was installed for energy and educational use, achieving 35% more power output compared to fixed panels.

4. Australia – Agricultural Solar Tracking: Solar trackers were used to power irrigation systems on rural farms, providing a steady power supply throughout the day and boosting efficiency in off-grid farming operations.

???? Quantitative Data

• Single-Axis Trackers: Improve efficiency by 15% to 25% compared to fixed systems.

• Dual-Axis Trackers: Increase output by 25% to 35%, especially in high sunlight areas.

• Land Usage: Tracking systems reduce required land by up to 20%, as fewer panels are needed for the same output.

?? Technical Specifications

• Tracking Type: Single-axis tracking moves panels along one axis (usually east to west); dual-axis tracking moves panels on both horizontal and vertical axes for maximum sun exposure.

• Control System: Microcontroller-based (e.g., Arduino, PIC, or STM32), uses input from sensors (like LDRs) to determine sun position, can include manual override or automated programming.

• Sensors Used: Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) for detecting sunlight intensity; optional: temperature sensors, IR sensors, or GPS for advanced tracking.

• Actuators/Motors: Servo motors or DC gear motors for small systems; stepper motors or linear actuators for large/industrial systems; power rating typically ranges from 5W to 50W per motor, depending on panel size.

???? Social Implications

• Energy Access in Remote Areas: Improves energy generation efficiency in off-grid or remote locations, helping communities access reliable electricity.

• Enhanced Quality of Life: With better and more consistent solar power, communities can benefit from improved lighting, communication, healthcare, and water systems.

Conclusion

Solar tracking systems offer a significant advancement in solar energy technology by maximizing the efficiencyofsolarpanels. By adjusting the position of the panels throughout the day to follow the sun,thesesystemscanincreaseenergyoutputby15% to 35%. Despite higher initial costs, the long-term benefits, including shorter payback periods, improved energy yield, and lower operational costs, make them a valuable investment, particularly for large-scale solar projects. While performance is influenced by local weather conditions, solar tracking systems contribute to a more sustainable and reliable energy solution, helping to meet global renewable energy goals and support the transition away from fossilfuels.Withongoingadvancementsin technology and cost reductions, solar tracking systems arepoised to play a vital role in the future of clean energy production.

References

[1] Singh,A.,Kumar,R.,&Sharma,V.(2024).“SolarTracking Systems:Advancements,Challenges,andFutureDirections–A Review.” Energy Reports, 12, 4658–4671. [2] Ahmed, M. M., Hasan, M. K., & Shafiq, M. (2019). “DevelopmentofAutomaticSolarTrackingSystemforSmallSolar Energy System.” International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications (IJSRP), 9(4), 150–154. [3] Mohanapriya, V., Manimegalai, V., Praveenkumar, V., & Sakthivel,P.(2021).“ImplementationofDualAxisSolarTracking System.” IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 1084(1), 012073. [4] Nguyen,B.T.,&Ho,H.-X.T.(2020).“Design,Implementation, and Performance Analysis of a Dual Axis Solar Tracking System.” Advances in Science, Technology and Engineering Systems Journal (ASTESJ), 5(3), 43–47. [5] Das, P. K., Habib, M. A., & Mynuddin, M. (2018). “MicrocontrollerBasedAutomaticSolarTrackingSystemwith Mirror Booster.” International Journal of Engineering and Technology, 7(3.34), 158–162.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Govind Tungariya, Nokia Ipili, Atharva Khamkar, Sagar Madri, Ashwini Khade. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.