Automatic solar panel tracking system

In remote areas the sun is a cheap source of electricity because instead of hydraulic generators it uses solar cells to produce electricity. While the output of solar cells depends on the intensity of sunlight and the angle of incidence. It means to get maximum efficiency; the solar panels must

Project Title

Automatic solar panel tracking system

Project Area of Specialization

Electrical/Electronic Engineering

Project Summary

In remote areas the sun is a cheap source of electricity because instead of hydraulic generators it uses solar cells to produce electricity. While the output of solar cells depends on the intensity of sunlight and the angle of incidence. It means to get maximum efficiency; the solar panels must remain in front of sun during the whole day. But due to rotation of earth those panels can’t maintain their position always in front of sun. This problem results in decrease of their efficiency. Thus to get a constant output, an automated system is required which should be capable to constantly rotate the solar panel. The Automatic Solar Tracking System (ASTS) was made as a prototype to solve the problem. It is completely automatic and keeps the panel in front of sun until that is visible. The unique feature of this system is that instead of take the earth as in its reference, it takes the sun as a guiding source. Its active sensors constantly monitor the sunlight and rotate the panel towards the direction where the intensity of sunlight is maximum. In case the sun gets invisible e.g. in cloudy weather, then without tracking the sun the ASTS keeps rotating the solar panel in opposite direction to the rotation of earth. But its speed of rotation is same as that of earth’s rotation. Due to this property when after some time e.g. half an hour when the sun again gets visible,
the solar panel is exactly in front of sun. Moreover the system can manage the errors and also provides the error messages on the LCD display. In manual mode, through the software (GUI) at computer, the solar panel can be rotated at any desired angle.

Project Objectives

* To develop a tracking system that constantly tracking the sun during day time. 
* To develop a tracking system that controls and monitor the movement of solar panel based on the intensity of sun light. 
* It is completely automatic and keeps the panel in front of the sun until that is visible. 
* To improve the efficiency of solar panels by tracking the sun. 
* To obtain maximum power from the sun

Project Implementation Method

The fossil fuels are non-renewable, limited and deplete. Therefore, it is imperative to find alternative sources of energy. As solar energy is available abundantly in nature, it can be considered as a best alternative to meet the energy demand. It is sustainable, renewable and scalable. Increasing the efficiency of harnessing solar energy should be one of our foremost concerns as it is a renewable source. The challenge in tapping this energy is to increase the efficiency as well as to reduce the cost of production. Therefore an attempt is made to review the various Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms, different solar tracking methods and the energy gained by using these methods. Further, a single axis microcontroller based automatic tracker is implemented and tested for its performance in real time. The work focusses on the orientation of solar panel towards the direction of maximum radiation by using a stepper motor  interfaced with ARM processor.

Benefits of the Project

Trackers generate more electricity than their stationary counterparts due to increased direct exposure to solar rays. This increase can be as much as 10 to 25% depending on the geographic location of the tracking system.
There are many different kinds of solar trackers, such as single-axis and dual-axis  trackers, all of which can be the perfect fit for a unique jobsite. Installation size, local weather, degree of latitude and electrical requirements are all important considerations that can influence the type of solar tracker best suited for a specific solar installation.
Solar trackers generate more electricity in roughly the same amount of space needed for fixed-tilt systems, making them ideal for optimizing land usage.
In certain states, some utilities offer Time of Use (TOU) rate plans for solar power, which means the utility will purchase the power generated during the peak time of the day at a higher rate. In this case, it is beneficial to generate a greater amount of electricity during these peak times of the day. Using a tracking system helps maximize the energy gains during these peak time periods.
Advancements in technology and reliability in electronics and mechanics have drastically reduced long-term maintenance concerns for tracking systems.

Technical Details of Final Deliverable

Solar tracking system like single axis tracker or dual axis tracker helps in production of higher energy from sun. ... In single and dual axis solar tracking type, the solar panel moves according to the movement of sun. Dual axis tracker has higher efficiency than fixed mount panels.

Final Deliverable of the Project

HW/SW integrated system

Core Industry

Energy

Other Industries

Legal

Core Technology

Others

Other Technologies

Shared Economy

Sustainable Development Goals

Gender Equality

Required Resources

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