Author : Vinodkumar P. More and Vikas V. Kulkarni

Solar energy is rapidly becoming an alternative means of electricity source. Fossil fuels are seriously depleting, thus the need for alternative energy source is a necessity. To make effective use of solar energy, its efficiency must be maximized. A feasible approach to maximizing the power output of solar array is by sun tracking. This paper therefore presents the design and construction of a solar tracking system that position the solar PV panel in proper orientation with the sun so as to always receive direct radiation. The prototype is designed around a programmed microcontroller which controls the system by communicating with the sensors and motor driver based on the movement of the sun. Automatic Sun Tracking System is a hybrid hardware/software prototype, which automatically provides best alignment of solar panel with the sun, to get maximum output (electricity). By doing this, the efficiency of the panel can be increased by as much as 15 – 25%.

Keywords: Solar panel, Microcontroller, DC Servo motor, LDR sensor, Sun tracking software.