This project demonstrates the development of an Arduino-based solar tracking system designed to optimize the energy capture efficiency of solar panels. The system adjusts the panel's orientation in real-time, following the brightest light source, ensuring the solar panel remains aligned with the optimal sunlight direction for maximum energy absorption.
The system uses photoresistive sensors to track light intensity and adjust the solar panel’s orientation (both vertically and horizontally).
The system improves solar panel energy capture by dynamically adjusting to follow the sun, resulting in more efficient energy harvesting compared to static panels.
The system utilizes an Arduino UNO microcontroller to process sensor data and control servo motors for panel orientation.
A user-friendly dashboard displays real-time sensor readings, panel orientation, and power consumption. The software also provides an interface to monitor the solar tracking system and track the performance of the solar panel, including its real-time light intensity and adjustments.
| Component | |
|---|---|
| 1x Arduino UNO R3 (CH340) |  |
| 1x USB 2.0 Cable Type A/B |  |
| 1x V5.0 Sensor Shield Expansion Board |  |
| 4x 3-Pin Dupont Wire (F-F) |  |
| 4x Photo Resistive Sensor Modules |  |
| 2x SG90 Servo Motors |  |
| 1x 6V 3W Monocrystalline Solar Panel |  |
| 1x USB Charge Detector |  |
| 1x 18650 Mobile Power Shield |  |
| 4x 18650 3.7V Lithium-Ion Batteries |  |
| 1x 18650 Battery Case |  |
Tech Stack: C/C++ (Arduino Framework) Python Tkinter pySerial