Single-Motor and Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System for Micro Photovoltaic Power Plants

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert solar radiation into electrical energy in a clean and cost-effective way. PV panels are positioned against the Sun using fixed or solar tracking systems to generate electricity at maximum efficiency. Although solar tracking systems work with higher power efficiency than fixed solar systems, they do not attract commercial attention due to their high investment and maintenance costs. In this study, a single-motor and dual-axis solar tracking system called asymmetric solar tracker (AST) was designed. The most significant innovation of AST is the adjustable asymmetrical stand that carries the PV panels. Thanks to its asymmetrical stand, AST does not need concrete or heavy metal construction to carry PV panels, as in traditional solar tracking systems. In addition, AST can track the Sun on the dual axis by moving on a single axis owing to its asymmetrical stand. These features make AST approximately as cost-effective as fixed solar systems and as efficient as dual-axis solar tracking systems. As an experimental study, an AST for two PV panels was fabricated and compared with a fixed solar system under different weather conditions. A microcontroller was employed to control the AST and light-dependent resistor (LDR) sensors were used to track the instant position of the Sun. Experimental results reveal that, depending on the weather conditions, AST increases the daily electrical energy produced by PV panels between 25% and 38% compared to the fixed solar system.