SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM USING ARDUINO

This research focuses on the development of a solar tracking system using an Arduino microcontroller to optimize the energy efficiency of photovoltaic solar panels. The conventional fixed solar panel setup often leads to suboptimal energy capture as the panel’s orientation remains static, resulting in reduced efficiency due to the sun’s changing position throughout the day. To address this, the proposed system employs a dual-axis solar tracker mechanism that automatically adjusts the solar panel's orientation to align with the sun's trajectory, maximizing solar energy absorption. The system utilizes Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) placed on either side of the solar panel to detect variations in light intensity. Based on the sensor readings, the Arduino microcontroller processes the information and drives servo motors to move the panel in real time, ensuring it faces the sun. The servo motors allow for precise angular adjustments, enabling both horizontal and vertical movement to track the sun across the sky. The Arduino-based control system is simple, cost-effective, and easily programmable, offering an accessible solution for enhancing solar power efficiency. A comparative analysis between the solar tracker and a fixed-panel setup shows that the tracking system significantly improves energy capture by maintaining optimal sunlight exposure throughout the day. The paper also discusses the challenges involved in system calibration, the reliability of sensor data, and the mechanical aspects of the tracking mechanism. Results demonstrate that the solar tracking system can increase energy output by up to 30% compared to static panels. The findings indicate that the proposed low-cost solar tracking system holds significant potential for large-scale solar applications, contributing to the increased adoption of renewable energy solutions and enhancing the overall performance of solar power systems. Experimental evaluations were conducted to compare the energy output of the solar tracker against a fixed-panel setup. The results indicate a significant improvement in energy generation with the tracking system. The solar tracker’s ability to follow the sun maximizes light absorption and increases the efficiency of the photovoltaic panel by up to 30% compared to a fixed panel. The system demonstrates notable advantages, including higher energy yields, better adaptability to changing weather conditions, and the ability to capture sunlight at different times of the day. Key Words: Solar Tracker, Light Detecting Resistor (LDR), Arduino, Servo Motor