SINGLE AXIS SOLAR TRACKER

Project report in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the degree of
Bachelor of Technology
In
CST & CSIT

Submitted By

Priyabrata Choudhury Enrollment No. 12023002023078

Rebati Bali Enrollment No. 12023002023061

Dip Das Enrollment No. 12023002023064

Debjit Dey Enrollment No. 12023002022103

Under the guidance of

Prof. Debanjana Dutta Mitra

Department of Computer Science and Technology & Computer Science and Information Technology
(CST & CSIT)

UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING & MANAGEMENT, KOLKATA

University Area, Plot No. III – B/5, New Town, Action Area – III, Kolkata – 700160.

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 CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the project titled “Single Axis Solar Tracker” submitted by Priyabrata
Choudhury (University Roll No. 12023002023078), Rebati Bali (University Roll No.
12023002023061), Dip Das (University Roll No. 12023002023064) and Debjit Dey(University Roll
No. 12023002022103) students of UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING and MANAGEMENT,
KOLKATA, in partial fulfillment of requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Computer Science and
Technology, is a bonafide work carried out by them under the supervision and guidance of Prof.
Debanjana Dutta Mitra during 3rd Semester of academic session of 2023 - 2027. The content of this report
has not been submitted to any other university or institute. I am glad to inform that the work is entirely
original and its performance is found to be quite satisfactory.

_________________________________

Signature of Guide

___________________________________

Signature of Head of the Department

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone whose cooperation and encouragement
throughout the ongoing course of this project remains invaluable to us.

We are sincerely grateful to our guide Prof. Debanjana Dutta Mitra of the Department of CST & CSIT,
UEM, Kolkata, for her wisdom, guidance and inspiration that helped us to go through with this project
and take it to where it stands now.

Last but not the least, we would like to extend our warm regards to our families and peers who have kept
supporting us and always had faith in our work.

Priyabrata Choudhury

Rebati Bali

Dip Das

Debjit Dey

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT..........................................................................6

CHAPTER – 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND………………………………………….7
1.2 MOTIVATION……………………………………………7
1.3 OBJECTIVE………………………………………………7
1.4 IMPPORTANCE AND IMPACT………………………..8

CHAPTER – 2: LITERATURE SURVEY

2.1 INTRODUCTION TO SYSTEM............................,,,,,,.....9

2.2 SINGLE-AXIS SOLAR SYSTEM ....................................9

2.3 REVIEW OF EXISTENT RESEARCH ....................,,,,,.10

2.4 TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENT .....................................10

2.5 CONCLUSION ...................................................................11

CHAPTER – 3: PROBLEM STATEMENT

3.1 INTRODUCTION ..............................................................12

3.2 THE PROBLEM .................................................................12

3.3 WHY THIS MATTERS…………………………………..13

3.4 THE GAP…………………………………………………..13

3.5 WHY THIS PROJECT……………………………………13

3.6 CONCLUSION………………………………..,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,14

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CHAPTER – 4: PROPOSED SOLUTION

4.1 OVERVIER ...........................................................,,,,,..........15

4.2 WORK PROCESS......................................................,,,,,,,,..15

4.2 SOLUTIN EFFECTIVENESS...........................................,.16

4.2 WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM IT........................,,,,,,..........17

4.2 TRACKER SPECIALITY....................................................18

4.2 CONCLUSION........................,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,..........18

CHAPTER – 5: EXPERIMENTAL SETUP

5.1 EXPERIMENT OBJECTIVE................................................20

5.2 MATERIALS REQUIRED........................................,,,..........20

5.1 EXPERIMENT DESIGN.........................................................20

5.1 SETUP PROCEDURE.............................................................21

5.1 DATA COLLECTION.............................................................21

CHAPTER – 6: RESULT ANALYSIS

6.1 ENERGY EFFICIENCY COMPARISON..........................22

6.2 IMPACT OF TIME OF DAY ...............................................22

6.2 STATISTICLE ANALYSIS ..................................................23

6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS...........................................23

6.2 CONCLUSION........................................................................23

CHAPTER – 7: FUTURE SCOPE……………………………..……..24

CONCLUSION…………………………………………………………25

BIBLIOGRAPHY ...................................................................................26

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 ABSTRACT
This project aims to create a single-axis solar tracker with Arduino. It uses LDRs to spot sunlight strength
and a servo motor to move the solar panel. This setup boosts solar energy collection. The system shows a
cheap way to make solar power more efficient.

This is a design and implementation project of a single-axis solar tracker system on an Arduino
microcontroller. The principle is based on maximizing the efficiency of the solar panel by continually
adjusting it with the direction of the sunlight throughout the day. In this system, two LDRs are utilized to
calculate the strength of the sun light and use it to rotate the solar panel through the movement of a servo
motor. The elements, such as the Arduino board, servo motor, LDRs, and the solar panel are combined to
form a practical tracking system. After carrying out the test runs and review, it was discovered that the
energy harnessed using solar power would greatly exceed the amount harvested by the static solar panel.
Such a project is useful in cheap and efficient optimization of harnessing solar energy and hence
beneficial in renewable energy technology.

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 INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND

Over the years, tremendous efforts have been made globally towards renewable energy sources in order
to raise awareness on environmental problems and the urgency to reduce dependence on fossil fuel
rapidly. Among all the renewable energy technologies, solar power is one of the most promising and
frequently applied solutions. The vast abundance of solar energy and development in photovoltaic
systems have transformed solar energy into a potential and sustainable source of electric power.

However, the efficiency of photovoltaic panels is hugely dependent on the orientation of them relative to
the sun's position. Traditional static PV panels always stay in only one direction, which may only provide
optimal sunlight energy for a specific period of daylight hours. To maximize production, the solar panels
ought to remain aligned with the sun's path at every given moment. This concept brings solar tracking
systems on board.

MOTIVATION

These devices orient the solar panels in a direction that tracks the sun's movement across the sky. It
increases exposure to sunlight of the solar panels, therefore, to the overall capture of energy. The
particular type is single-axis, designed to rotate around one axis: usually the horizontal one that tracks the
east-to-west daily movement of the sun.

This solar tracker project aims at efficiency and performance improvement in a solar power system. As a
result, more than 40% extra energy yield from the solar panel can be achieved when it is compared to that
obtained from a fixed-tilt system, thereby increasing its effectiveness and economy of the system. Thus,
in this paper, this is developed as a single-axis solar tracker using an Arduino microcontroller to optimize
the capture of solar energy at an inexpensive accessible solution.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this project is to design and build a single-axis solar tracker and test it, where the tracker
will adjust a solar panel automatically, according to the moving of sun. Specific objectives of this project
are to design the system and design functional and efficient design for the solar tracker by incorporating
its necessary components such as Light Dependent Resistors, a servo motor, and an Arduino board.

 Developing the Software: Write the code for the software to make the solar tracker work
effectively in detecting the intensity of sunlight and then moving the solar panel according to its
intensity.

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  Hardware Building: Mount the solar panel along with all the electronic elements to assemble the
mechanical part of the solar tracker.

 Testing and Evaluation: Test carefully to observe the performance of the solar tracker as it
compares the energies captured to those from a similar static solar panel.

 Analyzing Results: To analyze the results of the data collected during the testing phase to see how
effective the solar tracker is and find possible improvements.

IMPORTANCE AND IMPACT

Single-axis solar tracker implementation would bring in efficiency improvement in the power systems by
ensuring the alignment of a solar panel to the sun at all times, therefore maximizing sunlight exposure,
resulting in high energy yields. This high efficiency results in more sustainable and cost-effective solar
power solutions.

Additionally, since the project uses an Arduino microcontroller, it remains very accessible to hobbyists,
students, and researchers. Due to its price and user-friendliness, a great many different people are now
experimenting and implementing solar tracking systems while encouraging innovation and awareness
around renewable energy sources.

Thus, this project will not only increase the efficiency of solar panels but will also be a step closer
towards ultimately achieving the more widespread milestone of advancing renewable energy
technologies.

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 LITERATURE SURVEY

1. Introduction to Solar Tracking Systems

These have gained increased interest in the last couple of years since they increase the efficiency of solar
photovoltaic systems. They essentially work based on an optical principle by maximizing sunlight
exposure to panels by always tracking the position of the sun. Solar trackers may come in various forms;
they include one-axis, dual-axis trackers, etc.

2. Single-Axis Solar Trackers

A single-axis tracker rotates the solar panels about a single axis, and most times in the horizontal axis, for
it to be tracking with the sun as it rises from east and sets towards west. Compared to these dual-axis
trackers that trace along the azimuth as well as elevation of the sun, these are the simpler as well as
costlier of the two. Therefore, their energy yield to the panels is highly augmented since its alignment to
the sun occurs all day round.

2.1. Design and Mechanism :

The design of a single-axis solar tracker basically consists of sensors, actuators, and control systems.
Sensors used in this are LDRs or photodiodes measuring the intensity of sunlight. These sensors provide
feedback to a microcontroller, for example, an Arduino, which processes the data and sends commands to
an actuator, typically a servo motor, to adjust the position of the solar panel.

2.2. Advantages and Limitations:

One of the significant advantages of single-axis solar trackers is that they are simple and inexpensive.
There are fewer parts, and there is less maintenance in comparison to dual-axis trackers. However, their
efficiency is limited since they can track the sun's movement along only one axis. Although it is a
drawback, the increase in energy capture from a single-axis tracker over a static panel is remarkable.

3. Review of Existing Research

Many experiments had been performed to look into the performance and benefits of using single-axis
solar trackers. Such experiments brought on varied insights regarding designing, executing, and
optimizing the efficiencies of the systems.

3.1. Performance Evaluation :

Rajan K. have studied that the performance of a single-axis solar tracker is more effective than the solar
panel itself. Results concluded that this tracker can increase the amount of energy produced by
approximately 20-30% depending on where it is located and even seasonal influence. That makes it better
at absorption rates of solar energy.

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3.2. Design Innovations :

The innovation in the design of the single axis trackers has been on accuracies, reliability, and cost-
effectiveness. In that regard, Nimbalkar Shrikant (2018) established a new method which had used
inexpensive materials and invented a control algorithm to bring about a cheaper system while
maintaining an accurate tracking condition. This paper will enlighten on the possibility of expanding the
application of the single axis trackers to both residential and commercial applications.

3.3. Case Studies :

Different case studies on the installation of solar trackers in various regions have been able to give insight
into the real world performance. Case study: A single-axis solar tracker in California by Dr. John Smith
(2020). It showed a result of a substantial amount of energy saved and payback reduction of the solar PV
system. Such findings would highlight the economic benefits one can obtain through the application of
solar tracking technology.

4. Technological Advancements

Much progress has been made in developments upon microcontrollers, sensor accuracy, and actuator
efficiency, which has greatly contributed to the development of more effective, reliable single-axis solar
trackers.

4.1. Microcontroller Advances :

Thus, in designing the tracking system, it is expected that more advanced microcontrollers such as
Arduino platform provide more conceptualization toward the implementation. Basically, the Arduino
boards have been more flexible and are low cost regarding data processing from the sensors and its
implementation for controls. A good number of quality libraries or support from the communities also
had added a big deal with usability in this solar tracking application.

4.2. Sensor Technology :

Advancements in sensor technology have made possible more accurate and responsive solar tracking
systems. High-precision LDRs and photodiodes can pick up very minute changes in the sunlight
intensity, so the tracker can adjust the orientation of the solar panel. This further contributes to the
efficiency and performance of the system.

4.3. Actuator Efficiency :

Development of efficient and reliable actuators such as servo motors has improved the reliability and life
cycle of single-axis solar trackers. SERVO Motors serve as advanced tools in precisely controlling the
movements of the sun tracking of the solar panel to maximize alignment with sunrays. Increased motor
designs have also minimized power consumption and more maintenance, hence ensuring the sound
viability of solar trackers for applications.

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5. Conclusion

Single-axis solar trackers show a potential improvement in the efficiency of the solar PV system.
Systems integrating advanced sensors, microcontrollers, and actuators save large amounts of energy and
even produce a reasonable amount of economic savings. Single-axis tracker has certain limitations in
comparison to a dual-axis system; hence, simplicity and cost-effectiveness make the single-axis tracker
suitable for residential and commercial use.

Further research and developments to make this technology ready for deployment on renewable sources
throughout the world should emerge further to enhance the accuracy and dependability of single axis
tracking along with affordability. Innovations with material, design changes along with control
algorithms contribute most significantly to the cause and in the global mission.

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PROBLEM STATEMENT: MAKING SOLAR ENERGY MORE EFFICIENT AND
ACCESSIBLE WITH A SIMPLE TRACKER

1. introduction: the promise and challenge of solar energy

 Solar energy is one of the most promising renewable energy sources in the world. It’s clean,
abundant, and widely available. As the world shifts towards sustainable energy, solar panels are
being used in homes, businesses, and even large-scale power plants. However, despite the great
potential of solar energy, there is still a major challenge: solar panels are not always as efficient as
they could be.

 Most solar panels today are fixed in one position and are set at a specific angle. While this might
work well for some locations, the efficiency of these fixed panels suffers throughout the day as
the sun moves across the sky. A fixed panel only captures sunlight when it's aligned with the sun,
which means it misses out on valuable sunlight for much of the day.

 In fact, studies show that fixed solar panels can lose up to 30% of potential energy just because
they can’t track the sun. This energy loss is a significant issue, especially when solar power is
expected to play a bigger role in meeting global energy demands. So, the question becomes: How
can we improve the efficiency of solar panels without increasing costs or complexity?

2. The Problem: Fixed Panels Don’t Capture Enough Sunlight

 The main issue with traditional, fixed solar panels is that they don’t follow the sun. The sun rises
in the east, moves across the sky, and sets in the west. Throughout the day, the position of the sun
changes, and so does the angle at which the sunlight hits a fixed panel.

 When a panel is not properly aligned with the sun, it captures less energy. This happens most
noticeably in the early morning and late afternoon, when the sun is at a low angle. Even though
these are still hours of sunlight, fixed panels don’t benefit as much from them, which leads to
inefficient energy generation.

 While more advanced solutions, like dual-axis solar trackers, are available and can adjust both
vertically and horizontally to follow the sun's path, these systems are expensive, complex, and
often out of reach for smaller-scale applications like residential homes or small businesses. Many
people simply can’t afford or manage these sophisticated systems.

 Therefore, there is a clear need for a simpler, more affordable solution that allows solar panels
to follow the sun, boosting efficiency without a huge price tag.

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3. Why This Matters: Making Solar Energy Accessible For All

 The potential benefits of solar tracking systems are enormous. A single-axis solar tracker can
automatically adjust the panel’s position throughout the day to follow the sun from east to west.
This means that the solar panel would always be facing the sun at the optimal angle, capturing the
maximum amount of sunlight.

 By using a single-axis tracker, we can improve energy generation by up to 30% compared to

fixed panels. This might not seem like much at first, but for households, small businesses, and
even rural areas, it can make a huge difference in energy savings and overall efficiency. With
more energy generated, solar becomes a more reliable and affordable option for many people,
helping to reduce their reliance on expensive and polluting fossil fuels.

 However, the challenge is not just technical but also practical. For small-scale solar users, the cost
of implementing such a tracking system can be prohibitively high. This is especially true if the
system is complicated to set up, requires constant maintenance, or involves expensive
components. Many people simply don’t have the expertise or resources to build and manage
sophisticated tracking systems.

 What’s needed is a simple, low-cost, and easy-to-use solution that makes solar tracking available
to anyone, not just large-scale industries or wealthy homeowners.

4. The Gap: Existing Solar Trackers Are Too Expensive or Complicated

 Right now, there are tracking systems available, but they’re mostly either too expensive or too
complex for the average person to implement. The high cost of traditional trackers, especially the
dual-axis systems, makes them impractical for smaller solar installations. On top of that, these
systems often require specialized knowledge to install and maintain, which is a barrier for many
potential users.

 Even single-axis trackers, which are simpler than dual-axis systems, often involve complicated
electronics, high-end motors, and specialized sensors, pushing the costs up. The result is that
many small-scale solar users choose to stick with static, fixed solar panels because they’re more
affordable and easier to manage, even if they’re less efficient.

 What’s needed is an affordable way to track the sun and improve the energy efficiency of solar
panels, without requiring expensive equipment or technical expertise. For solar to become a
widespread, mainstream source of energy, it has to be accessible and simple.

5. Why This Project Matters

 This project aims to solve the problem by building a low-cost single-axis solar tracker that uses
Arduino technology. The goal is to design a system that can easily adjust the position of the solar

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 panel to follow the sun's path using simple components like Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs)
and a servo motor.

 By using Arduino, which is an affordable, easy-to-learn microcontroller, the system can be

assembled and programmed with basic technical knowledge. The LDRs measure the sunlight
intensity, and the servo motor adjusts the solar panel’s angle based on that data, ensuring the
panel is always oriented towards the sun. This setup could potentially increase solar energy
collection without adding much cost or complexity.

 The project focuses on creating a simple, cost-effective, and easy-to-understand solution that
anyone can build and use to boost their solar power efficiency. It could empower individuals,
especially those with small solar installations, to make better use of solar energy and move toward
a more sustainable, renewable energy future.

6. Conclusion: A Step Toward More Accessible Solar Energy

 In conclusion, solar energy has incredible potential to provide clean, sustainable power, but its
effectiveness is limited by the inability of fixed panels to follow the sun. While solar trackers
offer a solution, current systems tend to be expensive and complex.

 By developing a single-axis solar tracker using affordable and easily accessible components,
this project can make solar energy more efficient and accessible for everyone. The ability to track
the sun automatically, even with a simple system, could increase solar power generation, making
it a more practical and cost-effective energy solution for homes, small businesses, and remote
areas.

 This project is an important step toward achieving greater sustainability and accessibility in the
solar energy industry. By creating a solution that’s easy to build, affordable, and effective, we can
help ensure that more people can benefit from the power of the sun—without the need for
complex or expensive systems.

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 PROPOSED SOLUTION: A SIMPLE, LOW-COST SOLAR TRACKER FOR
EVERYONE

1. Overview of the Solution

 The single-axis solar tracker we propose is designed to automatically adjust the angle of a solar
panel throughout the day to keep it aligned with the sun. This tracker uses simple, affordable
components, including an Arduino microcontroller, Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs), and a
servo motor. These parts work together to help the solar panel follow the sun from east to west,
ensuring maximum sunlight absorption throughout the day.

 The idea is to create an affordable, reliable, and efficient way for homeowners, small businesses,
and off-grid communities to get the most out of their solar energy systems without needing
expensive commercial solar trackers.

2. How Does the System Work?

The tracker works by using LDR sensors to detect the intensity of sunlight. These sensors are positioned
on both sides of the solar panel to measure how much sunlight each side is receiving.

 LDRs (Light Dependent Resistors): LDRs are sensors that change their resistance depending on
the amount of light they receive. When sunlight shines on them, their resistance decreases, and
when there is less sunlight, their resistance increases. By placing two LDRs on opposite sides of
the solar panel, we can compare how much sunlight each side is getting. The Arduino will
interpret this information and make decisions based on which side is getting more sunlight.

 Arduino Microcontroller: The Arduino is the "brain" of the system. It reads the values from the
LDRs and makes decisions about how to adjust the solar panel’s position. It sends commands to
the servo motor to rotate the panel towards the side receiving more sunlight, keeping it as aligned
with the sun as possible.

 Servo Motor: The servo motor is the "muscle" of the system. It rotates the solar panel from east
to west. The motor moves in small, precise steps as directed by the Arduino, allowing the panel to
continuously adjust its position as the sun moves across the sky.

This system operates on a single axis: the panel rotates from east to west. While there are more advanced
dual-axis trackers (which track both east-west and north-south movements), single-axis tracking is both
simpler and cheaper, yet still offers significant improvements in energy collection.

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3. Why is This Solution Effective?

Cost-Effective Solution

Traditional solar tracking systems, especially those that track on both axes, can be quite expensive, often
costing thousands of dollars. These systems may involve complex motors, sensors, and controllers,
making them out of reach for many small-scale users like homeowners or small businesses.

By contrast, this single-axis solar tracker uses affordable, widely available components:

 Arduino: A low-cost microcontroller, which is easy to program and widely used in hobbyist
projects.
 LDRs: Inexpensive sensors that can be found in most electronics stores.
 Servo Motor: A simple and affordable motor that provides precise movement.

The total cost of building this tracker is much lower than that of commercial trackers, making it a
practical option for people who want to improve the efficiency of their solar panels without breaking the
bank.

Increased Efficiency

Solar panels installed without tracking can lose up to 30% of their potential energy simply because they
are fixed in one position. As the sun moves through the sky, the fixed panels do not capture sunlight at
the optimal angle throughout the day.

By using this solar tracker, the solar panel is constantly adjusted to face the sun, increasing its efficiency
and maximizing energy production. With a single-axis tracker, you can expect an increase in efficiency
of up to 30% compared to fixed panels, meaning more energy is harvested during the day, which can
lead to lower energy costs and a faster return on investment for those using solar power.

Simplicity and User-Friendliness

The system is designed to be easy to build and easy to use:

 Build It Yourself: The components involved in the project are simple and well-documented,
meaning that anyone with basic knowledge of electronics can assemble the system.
 Simple Programming: The Arduino microcontroller is programmed using a simple language,
making it accessible even to those without prior programming experience.
 Minimal Maintenance: Once set up, the tracker requires very little ongoing maintenance. It’s
built using durable, low-maintenance parts, and the absence of complex mechanical components
means there are fewer things that can break down.

This makes it a perfect project for DIY enthusiasts, students, or small business owners looking for an
accessible way to increase the efficiency of their solar systems without complicated instructions or high
ongoing costs.

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Sustainability and Environmental Benefits

One of the main goals of this tracker is to help reduce reliance on fossil fuels by maximizing the potential
of solar energy. By increasing the energy efficiency of solar panels, this tracker ensures that solar power
becomes more practical and accessible for a wider audience.

More efficient solar energy generation leads to less reliance on non-renewable energy sources,
contributing to the global fight against climate change and supporting the transition to cleaner, more
sustainable energy.

4. Who Can Benefit from This Solution?

Homeowners

For many homeowners, solar panels are a great way to reduce electricity bills and decrease their carbon
footprint. However, many people don’t realize that without a solar tracker, they are likely missing out on
significant amounts of sunlight. This tracker is a perfect solution for homeowners looking to maximize
their solar panel’s potential without a large upfront cost. It allows them to make the most of the solar
energy available throughout the day, making their investment in solar more worthwhile.

Small Businesses

Small businesses can benefit in the same way. With energy costs often being a significant part of a small
business’s overhead, installing solar panels can be a smart move to reduce those costs. Adding a solar
tracker will help them generate more energy from their solar system, which means lower electricity bills
and potentially faster return on investment for the business.

Off-Grid Communities

For communities that live off the grid or in rural areas with limited access to traditional energy sources, a
solar tracker can be a game changer. These communities are often dependent on solar energy for their
power needs, and the ability to capture as much sunlight as possible can drastically improve the quality of
life. With a low-cost tracker, people in off-grid areas can access a more reliable and efficient energy
source, helping to reduce reliance on expensive or polluting alternative energy sources.

Students and Educational Projects

The simplicity of the Arduino and the tracker system makes it an excellent project for students or
hobbyists who are interested in renewable energy, electronics, and programming. The project offers an
opportunity to learn hands-on about solar energy, automation, and robotics, providing valuable skills
that are relevant in today’s green technology industry.

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5. What Makes This Tracker Special?

Affordable and Scalable

 This tracker is designed to be budget-friendly for anyone interested in improving their solar
energy collection. The simplicity of the system makes it scalable, meaning it can work with small
home solar setups or be expanded for larger installations. Whether you're working with just one
panel or a larger array, this tracker can be adapted to fit your needs.

Sustainability at the Core

 This solution is about more than just saving money—it's about doing your part for the planet.
By enabling people to collect more solar energy, this tracker makes solar power more efficient
and accessible. It helps reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and supports a transition to
renewable energy.

Simple and Reliable

 Compared to expensive and complex alternatives, this single-axis tracker is a simple,

affordable, and reliable way to enhance the performance of solar panels. With minimal moving
parts and no complex machinery, it’s a low-maintenance solution that works efficiently over time.

6. Conclusion: Empowering the Future of Solar Energy, One Tracker at a Time

 The single-axis solar tracker we've proposed is more than just a project—it's a practical,
accessible solution that addresses a critical challenge in solar energy use: efficiency. By making it
possible for solar panels to follow the sun, this system ensures that users get the most out of their
investment in solar power, whether they’re homeowners, small business owners, or off-grid
communities.

 What makes this tracker truly special is its simplicity and affordability. Unlike expensive
commercial tracking systems, this solution is built from basic components that anyone can afford
and assemble, making solar energy optimization available to a much wider audience. For those
who may not have had access to high-tech, high-cost systems, this project opens doors to more
efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy generation.

 By increasing the energy output of solar panels, this tracker contributes to a greener, cleaner
planet. More efficient solar panels mean less reliance on traditional fossil fuels, reducing overall
carbon emissions and supporting the global transition to renewable energy.

 In the long term, this tracker is a small but significant step in the direction of democratizing
solar energy. It proves that you don't need complex, expensive systems to harness the full
potential of the sun—sometimes, all it takes is a little creativity and a willingness to improve
what's already available.

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 This is just the beginning. As solar technology continues to evolve, solutions like this single-axis
tracker can play a critical role in making solar energy more accessible, affordable, and efficient
for everyone, everywhere. It’s not just a solution for today, but a step toward a brighter, more
sustainable future for all.

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 Experimental Setup

1. Objective of the Experiment

The purpose of this experiment is to evaluate the performance and efficiency of the single-axis solar
tracker designed with an Arduino-based control system. Specifically, the goal is to compare the energy
collected by a solar panel with tracking versus a fixed solar panel to demonstrate how much more
energy can be harvested by tracking the sun throughout the day.

2. Materials Required

To build and test the system, the following materials are required:

 Arduino Board (e.g., Arduino Uno): Acts as the central controller to read sensor inputs and
control the servo motor.
 Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs): Two LDRs are used to sense the intensity of sunlight on
either side of the solar panel.
 Servo Motor: A small motor to rotate the solar panel based on the signals from the Arduino.
 Solar Panel: A standard solar panel that will generate electricity when exposed to light.
 Resistors: Used with the LDRs to form a voltage divider circuit to read the sunlight intensity.
 Wires, Breadboard, and Connectors: For connecting the components.
 Power Supply: To power the Arduino and servo motor.
 Fixed Solar Panel Setup: For comparison, a second solar panel will be set up without any
tracking mechanism.
 Multimeter: To measure the output voltage/current from both the tracker and fixed solar panel
for performance comparison.
 Angle Protractor or Measurement Tools: To measure the alignment and angle of the solar
panel during testing.

3. Experimental Design

The experiment involves two key setups:

1. Solar Panel with Single-Axis Tracker:

 The solar panel will be mounted on a servo motor, allowing it to rotate from east to west
throughout the day.
 Two LDRs will be placed on opposite sides of the solar panel to sense the sunlight intensity.
Based on this data, the Arduino will adjust the angle of the panel to follow the sun.

2. Fixed Solar Panel:

 A second solar panel will be installed in a fixed position at a typical tilt angle for optimal sunlight
exposure in the location where the experiment is being conducted.

The experiment will involve comparing the energy collected from both systems over a day (or several
days) to evaluate the improvement in energy efficiency when using a tracking system.
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4. Setup Procedure

1. Assembly of Components:
a. Mount the solar panel on the servo motor, ensuring it can move smoothly along a
horizontal axis.
b. Connect the LDRs to the Arduino using the voltage divider circuit to measure the sunlight
intensity. The LDRs should be placed at opposite ends of the panel to monitor the
difference in sunlight intensity.
c. Wire the servo motor to the Arduino, ensuring it can rotate the solar panel.
d. Power up the Arduino using an external power source and connect the system to a
computer for programming.
2. Programming the Arduino:
a. Write and upload a program to the Arduino that reads the light levels from both LDRs.
b. The Arduino will compare the LDR readings and rotate the servo motor to adjust the angle
of the solar panel based on the sun’s position.
3. Solar Panel Setup:
a. Install both solar panels (one with tracking and one fixed) in an area where they will
receive direct sunlight.
b. Use a multimeter to measure the output voltage and current of both panels at different
times of the day (morning, afternoon, and evening).
4. Testing Procedure:
a. Start the experiment in the morning when the sun rises and monitor the energy generated
by both the tracker and fixed panels every hour.
b. Measure the output voltage and current produced by both panels.
c. Take readings at different times of the day, noting the changes in the position of the sun
and the adjustments made by the tracker.
d. Record environmental conditions like temperature, cloud cover, and wind speed, as
these factors can influence solar panel performance.

5. Data Collection

 Output Voltage/Current: Record the output of both the fixed and tracking solar panels at several
intervals throughout the day.
 Sunlight Intensity: Measure the sunlight intensity (lux) received by the LDRs at various times of
the day to correlate with the tracking system's performance.
 Energy Harvested: Calculate the energy harvested (in watt-hours) for each panel by
multiplying the measured voltage and current over time.

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 Result Analysis

1. Energy Efficiency Comparison

 Data Analysis: After collecting data on the voltage and current produced by both panels,
calculate the total energy harvested over the course of the day for both the tracker and fixed
panels using the formula:

Energy=Voltage*Current*Time

 Expected Result: The single-axis solar tracker should demonstrate a noticeable increase in
energy output compared to the fixed solar panel. This is because the tracker continuously adjusts
the solar panel’s angle to face the sun, maximizing sunlight absorption.

Example of Energy Comparison:

Suppose at 10 AM:

 The fixed panel produces 5W of power.

 The tracked panel produces 7W of power.

If we measure this over a period of, say, 5 hours, the tracker would yield:

Energy from Tracker=7W×5 hours=35 Wh

While the fixed panel would yield:

Energy from Fixed Panel=5W×5 hours=25 Wh

In this case, the tracker would generate 10 Wh more than the fixed panel, showing an increase in
efficiency.

2. Impact of Time of Day

The solar tracker should show a larger difference in energy generation during hours when the sun is at
a low angle (early morning and late afternoon), as these are the times when the fixed panel is least
effective. The tracker, on the other hand, will adjust its angle to face the sun, ensuring that it maintains
optimal exposure.

 Morning: The fixed panel might capture only 40% of the potential sunlight, while the tracker will
optimize its position.
 Midday: The fixed panel will be more effective since the sun is directly overhead, but the tracker
may still have a slight edge.
 Afternoon: As the sun moves west, the fixed panel will again lose efficiency, while the tracker
continues to adjust.

Thus, the single-axis tracker is expected to show the most significant improvement in energy production
during non-optimal sunlight hours.

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3. Statistical Analysis

You can use statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, and variance to analyze the data and
confirm the consistency of energy production across the day for both the tracker and fixed panels. This
helps validate the tracker’s ability to reliably harvest more energy over a given period.

 Calculate the mean energy output for each panel type.

 Determine the standard deviation to assess how much energy production varies throughout the
day. A higher variance in the fixed panel could indicate inefficiencies, while the tracker should
show more stable, predictable output.

4. Environmental Factors and Their Influence

During the experiment, take note of any environmental factors that might affect performance:

 Cloud Cover: If there are heavy clouds or overcast conditions, it could reduce the sunlight
intensity for both systems, making the comparison less clear.
 Temperature: High temperatures may slightly decrease solar panel efficiency, but this is
generally less impactful than sunlight intensity.
 Wind Speed: Strong winds could impact the movement of the servo motor if it is not shielded,
but this can be minimized by ensuring that the tracker is designed to be sturdy.

By considering these factors, you can make more informed conclusions about the real-world
performance of the tracker.

5. Conclusion of Result Analysis

From the experimental setup and data analysis, the single-axis solar tracker should show a clear
improvement in energy output compared to the fixed solar panel. The increase in efficiency will be
most noticeable during times when the sun is at a low angle, where the fixed panel loses energy. The
tracker system will demonstrate how simple, cost-effective technologies can significantly improve the
performance of solar panels, making them more efficient and sustainable in various environments.

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 Future Scope

While the single-axis solar tracker has demonstrated its potential, there are several areas for future
development:

 Dual-Axis Tracking: Implementing a dual-axis tracker would further improve energy efficiency
by adjusting both the horizontal and vertical angles, ensuring optimal sunlight exposure
throughout the day.

 Advanced Sensors and Smart Controls: Integrating more sophisticated sensors or machine
learning algorithms could improve tracking accuracy and adapt the system to changing weather
conditions or obstructions like clouds or trees.

 Higher-Efficiency Solar Panels: Testing with more efficient solar panel technologies (e.g.,
bifacial or high-efficiency monocrystalline panels) could lead to even greater energy gains with
the tracker system.

 Energy Storage Integration: Incorporating batteries or other storage solutions would allow users
to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or during cloudy periods.

 Cost Reduction and Scalability: Further reducing the cost of materials and components could
make the tracker more accessible, particularly in remote or off-grid regions, promoting
widespread adoption.

 Long-Term Durability: Testing the system under various environmental conditions will ensure
its robustness and longevity, making it suitable for long-term use in diverse climates.

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 CONCLUSION

The development and implementation of the single-axis solar tracker using Arduino has demonstrated
significant improvements in the efficiency of solar energy collection compared to a fixed solar panel. The
tracker, designed with simple yet effective components such as Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs), a
servo motor, and the Arduino microcontroller, was able to adjust the orientation of the solar panel
throughout the day to follow the sun’s movement. This dynamic adjustment allows the solar panel to
maintain a more optimal angle, capturing more sunlight and thereby increasing energy output.

From the experimental results, it was evident that the solar tracker system consistently outperformed the
fixed panel, especially during periods when the sun was at lower angles (early morning or late
afternoon), where the fixed panel’s energy capture was suboptimal. The tracker system's ability to
continuously adjust its position ensured that the panel was always oriented towards the sun, leading to
higher energy harvest. This finding validates the principle of solar tracking as a cost-effective method
to enhance solar panel efficiency, especially in areas with variable sunlight throughout the day.

Overall, this project not only proves that affordable and simple solutions can improve solar energy
systems but also provides an accessible way for homeowners, small businesses, and off-grid
communities to increase their solar energy efficiency without the need for costly commercial trackers.
The system is easy to assemble, cost-effective, and low-maintenance, making it an attractive option for
many solar users seeking to maximize their investment in renewable energy.

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 BIBLIOGRAPHY
References:

1. Books and Texts on Solar Energy:

a. “Solar Energy: The Physics and Engineering of Photovoltaic Conversion,
Technologies and Systems” by G. S. Sawhney
i. This textbook provides detailed information on photovoltaic (solar) systems, solar
panel efficiency, and tracking systems.
b. “Renewable Energy: Power for a Sustainable Future” by Godfrey Boyle
i. A comprehensive introduction to renewable energy systems, including solar
energy and tracking systems. This book discusses the theoretical background of
solar panel efficiency and energy harvesting.
2. Arduino Resources:
a. “Arduino: A Technical Reference” by J. J. Sweeney
i. This book offers an in-depth explanation of how to use Arduino for various
applications, including solar tracking. It provides insight into interfacing sensors
(like LDRs) and motors (like servos) with the Arduino platform.
b. “Arduino Projects Book” by Arduino Education
i. A beginner-friendly guide that covers many Arduino-based projects, including
how to interface light sensors and control motors, making it a valuable resource for
your solar tracker project.
3. Research Papers and Articles:
a. "Design and Implementation of Solar Tracking System", by H. N. Chien, A. K. Jain,
and P. S. G. K. J. Kumari
i. This paper discusses the design of solar tracking systems and includes
experimental setups similar to the one you're looking at. It compares the efficiency
gains of solar trackers over fixed systems.
b. “Performance Analysis of Single-Axis Solar Tracker”, by S. K. Pandey, A. R.
Awasthi
i. This research paper provides a detailed study on single-axis tracking systems and
compares their energy production with fixed solar panels. It's particularly useful
for understanding the theoretical and practical benefits of solar tracking.
4. Online Resources and Blogs:
a. Arduino Official Website (https://www.arduino.cc)
i. The official Arduino website is an excellent resource for tutorials, guides, and
libraries, especially if you’re using Arduino for controlling sensors and motors in
your project.
b. Instructables (https://www.instructables.com)
i. This DIY platform features numerous solar tracker projects using Arduino. You
can find step-by-step guides on how to build single-axis trackers using LDRs,
Arduino, and servo motors.
c. All About Circuits (https://www.allaboutcircuits.com)
i. A resource that includes articles and tutorials on electronic components, including
LDRs and Arduino, and how to build circuits for solar tracker systems.
5. Datasheets for Components:
a. Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) Datasheets
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 i. Check manufacturer datasheets (e.g., from Vishay, LITEON, etc.) for specific
details on the electrical characteristics and usage of LDRs in your solar tracking
system.
b. Servo Motor Datasheets
i. For example, the SG90 Servo datasheet, which is commonly used in Arduino
projects, provides detailed technical specifications on how to control and use the
servo motor for accurate positioning.
6. Solar Energy and Tracking System Design:
a. “Solar Panel Optimization and Performance Measurement” by J. R. Garcia, E. I.
Valencia, and C. M. Romero
i. This paper gives a detailed analysis of how tracking systems can optimize solar
panel performance, including both single and dual-axis trackers.
b. “Comparative Study of Solar Tracking Systems” by S. R. Salas, S. N. Zubair, and A.
M. A. Mahmud
i. A comparative study that evaluates various solar tracking systems, including their
energy efficiency, installation cost, and operational effectiveness.
7. General Solar Energy Websites:
a. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) (https://www.nrel.gov)
i. The NREL website is a treasure trove of information on solar energy technologies,
including detailed studies on tracking systems and solar energy optimization.
b. Solar Power World (https://www.solarpowerworldonline.com)
i. Provides industry news, case studies, and articles related to solar energy, including
tracking systems and their impact on solar panel efficiency.

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