Design and implementation of an automatic sun tracker system

Abstract

Renewable energy solutions are becoming increasingly popular. Photovoltaic (solar) systems are but one example. Maximizing power output from a solar system is desirable to increase efficiency. In order to maximize power output from solar panels, one needs to keep the panels aligned with the sun. As such, a means of tracking the sun is required. This is definitely a more cost effective solution than purchasing additional solar panels. It has been estimated that the yield from solar panels can be increased by 30 to 60 percent by utilizing a tracking system instead of a stationary array. This study evaluates the performance of two photovoltaic systems: one fixed and one equipped with a sun tracker which is a prototype for a microcontroller-based multi-function solar tracking system. The analysis accounts also the energy consumption of the sun tracker. An analytical approach is proposed. To validate the results through experimental tests, two alternative low power PV systems were built.