Solar energy overview and maximizing power output of a solar array using sun trackers

An overview of solar energy technology is discussed briefly. To increase the energy efficiency of a solar array, maximum power output is desired. There are three major approaches for maximizing power extraction from a solar array. They are sun tracking, maximum power point (MPP) tracking or a combination of both. The sun-tracking design can increase energy yield up to 50% over the year compared to the fixed-array design. The purpose of this paper is to present a dual-axis sun tracker using solar panels as sensors. The two sensors output voltage difference drives a power transistor that control the sun tracker motor. A similar approach is used to track the sun movement from North to South over the period of a year. To enhance the overall performance of the system, a PID controller was included in the feedback loop. MATLAB software is used to simulate the composite system. Finally, the designed circuits are implemented in laboratory and the overall performance of the composite system are evaluated.