Assessment and optimization of solar PV tracking systems for improved energy harvesting efficiency

Abstract

This project work focuses on the design, optimization, and assessment of a two axis sun tracking systems to the energy harvesting efficiency of solar PV systems. The study further integrates two geared DC motors for accurate panel movement along both axes. The performance of the sun tracker is evaluated through MATLAB simulations, which model the dynamic movement of the tracker, solar panel orientation, and energy output over day. Simulation Results show that the use of a two axis tracker significantly improves energy yield compared to fixed systems, while energy consumption due to motor movement is optimized through control strategies. This project works involves using a photovoltaic conversion panel in an automatic controller-based solar tracker system for efficient energy harvesting. The goal is to design a two axis solar tracker that adjusts its position to follow the sun and optimizing power output. A two axis tracking script made to follow the sun rays in two ways by adding elevation and azimuth. It collects maximum sun rays by watching the sun movement in four different directions. Various technologies for sun tracking systems have been examined, including two axis solar trackers, active solar trackers, chronological trackers, and hybrid trackers. The movement degrees of solar tracking systems of fixed and two axis sun tracking systems have also been examined. It has been discovered that AST with dual axis rotation are suitable for energy harvesting. This project work contributes to the advancement of solar energy technology by proposing solutions that increase harvesting efficiency of solar energy resources.