Project Title: Enhance Solar Panels with the Use of Arduino Software: A New Way of

Collecting Solar Energy

Introduction

Background of the Study

Solar panels also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels convert solar energy to electrical

energy (Rogers, Wisland, 2014) Solar panels are made up of many cells called photovoltaic cells,

mainly made of silicone for the main semiconductor material. The solar energy sector has gained

popularity in the past 30 years with the search for a better and cleaner energy source.

Solar panels are mainly used for residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications.

They are usually installed on top of rooftops or in large fields where sunlight is abundant

(Choujichun, 2024). There are three types of solar panels, mainly monocrystalline,

polycrystalline, and thin-film solar panels. Each varies in cost, efficiency, application, and life

span.

One of the down sides of solar panels is it is dependent on the angle in which the sun

light hits the panel (Verma et al., 2020). As the solar panel is fixed in position and the sun moves,

The peak performance with this setup is when the sun is perpendicular with the surface of the

solar panel.

Objectives
 This study seeks to develop innovative solutions that increase the efficiency of solar

energy conversion using the capabilities of Arduino Software. It is focused on enhancing the

conventional or traditional solar panels, to make it more efficient for consumers base on how it

will perform once the enhancement are applied so that it will be desirable or easily accessible

and appealing to commercial/potential buyers.

Statement of the Problem

Research Questions

This study aims to know the efficiency of enhanced solar panel with the use of Arduino

Uno. Primarily, this study wants to answer the following:

1. Is utilizing Arduino Uno possible to make solar panels more efficient?

2. What benefits do people get from investing in solar panels?

3. How long do solar panel last compared to our normal electricity?

Research Hypothesis

The current study will be guided by the following hypothesis:

1. Solar panels would be more efficient by utilizing Arduino Uno. As the sun moves across

the sky, the solar panel will begin to follow its sun rays to generate electricity, maximizing the

exposure of sunlight when the sun climbs higher in the sky.

2. The solar panel will produce energy longer than conventional energy. Solar panels will

produce more electricity continuously as long as there is daylight. It not only reduces electricity

bills but also contributes to a sustainable and bright future by harnessing renewable energy.
3. Some energy will be lost in running the circuit. It can be inevitably due to the resistance

of the materials through which the current flows. Minimizing energy loss leads to innovate

materials and circuit designs to enhance efficiency.

Limitations of the Study

This study on solar panels using Arduino Uno has some limitations. Dust on the solar

panels can reduce how much sunlight they capture, which affects energy production and gives

inconsistent results. The battery used in the system may discharge quickly, especially when

powering multiple components, making it hard to test long-term usage reliably. Additionally, the

Arduino Uno’s limited processing power means it may not respond quickly to changes in

sunlight. The study also relies on manual calibration of sensors, which can lead to small errors in

data collection. Finally, since the Arduino cannot connect easily to remote devices, it limits how

the system can be monitored and controlled from a distance.

Significance of the Study

This study aims to enhance solar panels by integrating Arduino technology, allowing the

panels to not only capture sunlight but actively follow the sun’s direction throughout the day.

By enhancing solar energy collection through this adjustment, the research could help by

providing an efficacious solution and appealing for widespread use. Conclusively, this innovation

could help us not to rely on non-renewable energy sources, including oil and coal, leading to a

cleaner and more sustainable future.

Methodology
 Power shortage has been a significant problem that has been affecting the lives of many

people. This study will provide an answer on how to improve solar panels and make them more

efficient with Arduino Software, the long-term economic benefits of investing in solar panels

compared to other renewable energy sources and for how long do solar panel last compared to

our normal electricity. By enhancing the standard solar panel that are going to be applied with

Arduino Software, this study seeks to develop innovative and alternative solutions for power

shortage and to also increase the efficiency of solar energy conversion.

Research Design

This is an experimental study, as it involves testing the efficiency of solar panels with and

without the use of Arduino software. The study aims to measure and compare the energy output

of both setups to determine whether the addition of Arduino improves efficiency.

The study draws upon energy conversion theory and the photovoltaic effect, which underpins the

functioning of solar panels. Additionally, the application of Arduino aligns with the principles of

automation in energy systems. Arduino serves as a control system, potentially enhancing solar

energy capture by adjusting the solar panel’s orientation throughout the day, guided by real-time

light conditions.

Variables

1. Independent Variable:

The control mechanism—whether or not the solar panel is equipped with Arduino software and

servo motors to adjust its orientation.

2. Dependent Variable:
Energy output of the solar panels, measured in watt-hours (Wh).

3. Controlled Variables:

 Type and size of the solar panels used.

 Weather conditions (the experiment should be conducted over consecutive days with

similar sunlight conditions).

 The angle and initial position of the solar panels.

 Type and capacity of the battery connected to each solar panel.

Build Process

The researcher will start by connecting the Arduino to a laptop. After connecting upload

the code that can be found in the QR code below. After uploading configure 2 servos in a pan and

tilt configuration. After this connect servo 1 to pin 9 and servo 2 to pin 10. Then connect servo 1

to the solar panel and servo 2 to a sturdy base.

Data Collection

For the data collection, the researchers will be using Arduino Uno, sensors to measure

voltage and current, and a computer to record the data. First, the researchers will set up solar

panels, one with Arduino and one without, to compare their energy output. The sensors will then

be connected to the panels to measure and record the voltage and current at regular intervals. The

solar panels will be placed in a spot where they can get enough sunlight, and the researchers will

collect data for about two weeks. To make sure the data is accurate, the researchers will use the

sensors before they start collecting data and take multiple readings to check for consistency.

Before starting the main data collection, the researchers will do a small test with one solar panel
to make sure everything works as expected. This will help by making sure the data we collect is

reliable and valid.

Materials

The materials needed are Arduino uno, servo (x2), wires, soldering iron, soldering wire,

flux, sintra board, screws, hot glue gun, and hot glue.

General Procedure

In this procedure, the researchers will set up their laptop, servos, and Arduino. Begin by

connecting the Arduino uno to your laptop using USB, then upload the text file from QR code to

the Arduino software to the Arduino. Once the code is uploaded, connect servo 1 to pin 9 and a

power source; this will serve as the tilt servo. Next, connect servo 2 to pin 10 and a power

supply; this will serve as the pan servo. Assemble servo 1 and servo 2 in a pan and tilt

configuration, and attach a bracket to servo 1 for the solar panel. Attach the entire setup on a

stable platform to prevent movement during servo operation, ensuring the right side of the pan

servo faces north. Connect the solar panel to the Arduino using the barrel jack and link the solar

panel’s output to a battery. Use the QR code to access the code required for the Arduino.

Testing Procedure

Efficiency of the solar panels

 Prepare and setup the both solar panels, the normal or standard solar panel and one with

the Arduino. First, hook the outputs of the two solar panels to two separate current monitors and

hook those two to separate batteries. The test will start at 5am and will and at 6pm, track the

amount of current received from both solar panels every 30 minutes in order to track or

determine how long each it takes for the solar panels to charge their respective batteries with the

use of ANCOVA as the scaling method. Repeat this test two times.

Data Analysis

Data Processing

After collecting the data, the researchers will put the data into a table. Separate the data

between week 1 and week 2. Ensure that no data is missing and all was recorded. This includes

the number of watts produced by the solar panels by the hour it was recorded.

Energy Output Comparison.

1. Without Arduino Control – Calculate the average energy output (Watt-Hours) by

totaling the number of watts produced and dividing it by its run time.

2. With Arduino Control – Calculate the average energy output (Watt-Hour) by totaling

the number of watts produced and dividing it by its run.

Improvement Calculations
 Differentiate the two results to determine what is more efficient or produces a higher

number of watts per hour. This shows if the improvements the researchers added were effective

or ineffective.

Time of Day Calculation

Analyze how the time of day effects the amount of energy is produced by the solar

panels, with the Arduino adjustments using the scaling of ANCOVA. Identify at what time

window the solar panel is at peak performance, with the Arduino adjustments.

Environmental Factors.

Determine how environmental forces affect the efficiency of the solar panel. Analyze if

the Arduino compensates effectively to these environmental factors.

Risk and Safety

In the process of experimentation, researchers may face potential harms or dangers in

conducting their research. To avoid such incidents, the researchers will prepare a container of

sand, so in an event of a fire it can be extinguished. An electrical gloves is also recommended.

Fire risks in making solar panels can arise because of the materials, equipment, and processes

used, so it is necessary to always prepare a bucket or container of sand instead of water in case a

fire will occur. Minor accidents can possible endanger the researchers leading to injuries. For

these reasons, it is necessary to be careful and always check the polarity to prevent causing a fire.

Lastly, it is essential to be alert and prepared for unexpected events that may occur before,

during, and after the experimentation.

Proper Waste Disposal

 For the project to be environmentally sustainable, proper garbage disposal is essential.

Damaged Arduino boards and sensors are examples of electric trash (E-waste), which needs to be

disposed of appropriately in the recycling bin. Used solder and flux are examples of soldering

waste that needs to be disposed of as hazardous waste. Non-recyclable plastics and adhesive

residue must be disposed of appropriately in accordance with local laws, while recyclable

materials such as packaging and metal scraps should be separated and submitted for recycling.

Used batteries must be transported to approved disposal facilities and handled as hazardous

waste. By taking these steps, the project reduces its negative effects on the environment and

encourages appropriate waste management (World Health Organization, 2024).