Principle of Photovoltaic Panel Solar Tracking System

What is a solar tracking system?

A solar panel precisely perpendicular to the sun produces more power than one not aligned. The main application of solar tracking system is to position solar photovoltaic (PV) panels towards the Sun. Most commonly they are used with mirrors to redirect sunlight on the panels.

How are photovoltaic panels tracked?

They can also be distinguished by two tracking techniques: The MPPT (maximum power point tracking) method which is based on an algorithm to find the maximum power curve of the photovoltaic panel, or the sun tracking system, which is based on the orientation of solar panels throughout the day to better exploit the photovoltaic cells [4, 5].

How a solar tracker can improve the efficiency of a photovoltaic panel?

But the continuous change in the relative angle of the sun with reference to the earth reduces the watts delivered by solar panel. In this context solar tracking system is the best alternative to increase the efficiency of the photovoltaic panel. Solar trackers move the payload towards the sun throughout the day.

How do solar trackers work?

This system is commonly used to position solar photovoltaic panels perpendicular to the Sun. You’re familiar with PV panels, but do you know about solar trackers? Though less known, they play a vital role in solar energy. They ensure that the panel consistently faces the sun, optimizing sunlight exposure.

How to design a solar tracking system?

The idea behind designing a solar tracking system is to fix solar photovoltaic modules in a position that can track the motion of the sun across the sky to capture the maximum amount of sunlight. Tracker system should be placed in a position that can receive the best angle of incidence to maximize the electrical energy output.

Are solar tracking systems a good alternative to photovoltaic panels?

In this context solar tracking system is the best alternative to increase the efficiency of the photovoltaic panel. Solar trackers move the payload towards the sun throughout the day. In this paper different types of tracking systems are reviewed and their pros and cons are discussed in detail.