International Journal of Radio, Space and Aerospace Engineering

Author: Md. Anwarul Abedin

Abstract: Use of solar energy is rapidly advancing as an important means of renewable energy resource. Solar tracking enables more solar energy to be generated because the solar panel is able to maintain a perpendicular profile to the sun’s rays. The dual axis solar photovoltaic panel is characterized by the capability to move in horizontal and vertical directions. The control circuit for the solar tracker is based on LS Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The mechanical design consists of rotary joints and two DC motors. This tracking system makes the solar photovoltaic panel more efficient by keeping the panel’s face perpendicular to the sun and therefore extracts maximum solar energy resulting into increased overall efficiency. It detects the sunlight through the LDRs as a sensor and then actuates the DC motors using PLC to position the solar panel where it can receive maximum sunlight. This research study shows that if the movable structures are used in a large scale in a solar power plant, a significant amount (nearly 40%) of more energy can be produced using the same arrays. The proposed control has the capability to be installed in different regions with minor modifications.