Solar tracking systems play a pivotal role in maximizing the efficiency of solar panels by orienting them towards the sun, ensuring optimal exposure throughout the day. Traditional solar tracking systems relied on predetermined algorithms and fixed schedules, often resulting in suboptimal energy capture.
Implementing solar tracking systems is a crucial approach to enhance solar panel efficiency amid the energy crisis and renewable energy transition. This article explores diverse solar tracking methods and designs, highlighting variations in efficiency, geographical locations, climatic conditions, complexity, and cost.
Recent developments in solar tracker systems include exploring different module geometries, materials, and tracking mechanisms to boost efficiency. Single-axis and dual-axis tracking systems are widely used, with dual-axis systems offering greater efficiency and accuracy.
In modern control systems for solar trackers based on the use of optical sensors, they occupy an important role. The use of optical cameras makes it possible to develop solar tracking systems that provide high accuracy and energy efficiency , , , , , , , .
Sensor Independent Solar Tracking (SIST) and fixed PV systems performance, utilizing a real-time clock (RTC) algorithm, was designed and analysed (Krishna Kumar et al., 2018). Unlike algorithm or sensor-based systems, SIST PV utilizes RTC for sun tracking, making it versatile and globally applicable.
Sensors detect the sun's angle, and feedback signals drive the tracker via a microprocessor. Open-loop solar trackers, on the other hand, rely entirely on current data inputs and the system's algorithm, making them easier and less expensive to construct. Fig. 2. Schematic representation of tilt moments in PV systems. Fig. 3. Solar tracker systems.