Enhancing Solar Energy Capture: A Comprehensive Study of an Intelligent Single-Axis Tracking System with Integrated Control Logic

Engineering notes

Engineering notes will be added by the Power for Solar editorial team.

Chinese explanation / 中文解读

中文解读待补充：本站会优先为光伏效率、钙钛矿太阳能电池、储能技术、太阳能热利用、BIPV、并网技术等高价值论文补充中文说明。

Original abstract

With the rapid depletion of fossil fuels, maximizing the efficiency of renewable energy systems like solar photovoltaics (PV) has become critical; however, conventional fixed solar panels suffer from reduced energy conversion efficiency due to their inability to maintain an optimal angle with the sun. To overcome this limitation, this paper presents the design and fabrication of an automated, cost-effective single-axis solar tracking system that dynamically optimizes energy harvesting. The system utilizes a microcontroller-based architecture integrated with light-dependent resistors (LDRs) to detect maximum solar irradiance, driving a motor mechanism to continuously align the PV panel perpendicular to the sun's rays. Experimental validation confirms that this tracking action enhances energy conversion efficiency by 20% to 30% compared to stationary installations, while consuming only a minimal fraction of the generated power for its own operation. Fabricated from robust, low-maintenance, and readily available components, this highly viable system offers a scalable solution to reduce the cost per unit of electricity, making it equally suitable for small-scale domestic rooftops and large-scale industrial solar farms contributing to global sustainable development goals.

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