A Mini-Project Report

On
"SOLAR TRACKER"

SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF DEGREE OF

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING

IN

ELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING

BY

HIMANTH NUKALA (1608-22-735-085)

TERA SHIVANI (1608-22-735-088)
PADIGA PRAVALIKA (1608-22-735-311)

Under the guidance of

Dr. K VIJETHA
M.E, (Ph. D)
Assistant Professor

Department of Electronics and Communication

Engineering(16”BTNR)
MATRUSRI ENGINEERING COLLEGE (18”BTNR
(An Autonomous Institution))
(Sponsored by Matrusri Education socitey, Estd1980)
(Approved by AICTE, Affiliated to Osmania University)
#16-1-486,Saidabad, Hyderbad, Telangana-500 059
www.matrusri.edu.in (12”BTNR)
2024-2025
 ABSTRACT

This project focuses on the design and implementation of a single-axis solar tracker to

enhance the efficiency of solar energy capture. The system utilizes light-dependent resistors

(LDRs) to measure sunlight intensity and a microcontroller to control the solar panel's

orientation. A servo motor adjusts the panel along a single axis to follow the sun's movement

throughout the day, ensuring optimal alignment with the sunlight. The single-axis design

provides a balance between improved energy output and cost efficiency compared to

stationary panels or more complex dual-axis trackers. Experimental results demonstrate a

significant increase in energy collection, showcasing the tracker’s potential for practical

applications in residential and commercial solar energy systems.

Keywords: Solar Tracker, LDR, servo motor

 CONTENTS
Page No.
Certificate i
Declaration ii
Acknowledgement iii
Abstract iv
List of figures vii
List of Tables vii
Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Introduction 1
1.2 Problem specification 2
1.3 Objectives 3
1.4 Layout of the Project 6

Chapter 2. LITERATURE SURVEY 7

2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4

Chapter 3. HARD WARE/SOFT WARE IMPLEMENTATION 15

3.1
3.1.1
3.1.2
3.2
3.3
3.4

Chapter 4. RESULT 60
4.1
4.2
4.3

Chapter 5. CONCLUSION 80

REFERENCES 85
APPENDIX ( chapter number not required) 90
Appendix I
 Matrusri Engineering College
(An Autonomous Institution)
(Sponsored by: MATRUSRI EDUCATION SOCIETY, Estd: 1980)
(Approved by AICTE, Affiliated to Osmania University)
email: [email protected] web site: www.matrusri.edu.in
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING

Certificate (18 B-TNR, Sentence case)

This is to certify that the Mini-project report entitled ………… being submitted by
Mr./Mrs.…….. in partial fulfilment for the award of the Degree of Bachelor of Engineering
in Electronics and Communication Engineering of the Osmania University, Hyderabad,
during 2024-25, is a record of bonafide work carried out under our guidance and
supervision.

The results presented in this project report have not been submitted to any other
University or Institute for the award of any Degree or Diploma.

Mini-Project Coordinator Name of the Guide

Designation

Dr. N. Srinivasa Rao

HOD-ECE
NOTE: The SECOND page should contain a certificate signed by the guide(s), Mini project
coordinator (s) and Head of the Department in the above format and should be on the college
letter head. (See the sample format)

Certificate (18 B-TNR, Sentence case)

This page may include the Certificate given by Organization or Company where you have
done your project (on their letter head). College certificate should precede this certificate.
 DECLARATION (18 B-TNR, Capital)

This is to declare that the work submitted in the present Mini- project work report
titled “WIRELESS COMMUNICATION” is a record of bonafide work done by me in the
Department of Electronics & Communication Engineering, Matrusri Engineering College,
Saidabad, Hyderabad.

No part of the report is copied from books, journals, internet and wherever the subject
content is taken; the same has been duly referred in the text. The report generated is based on
the project work carried out entirely by us and not copied from any other source.

Mr. STUDENT NAME (1608-18-735-000)

Ms. STUDENT NAME (1608-18-735-000)

Mr. STUDENT NAME (1608-18-735-000)

Place: Hyderabad,

Date: 15/01/2022.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT (write in your own words)

We would like to take this opportunity to place it on the record, that this Mini-project
would never have taken shape but for the cooperation extended to us by certain individuals.
Though this is not possible to name all of them, it would be a pardonable on us part if we
don’t mention some of the very important persons Sincerely we acknowledge our deep sense
of gratitude to the project guide, Mr. M.NARESH, Assistant Professor for his constant
encouragement, help and valuable suggestions. we wish to thank him for his constant
motivation and help throughout the Mini-project.

We would like to express our deep gratitude to the Head of Department Dr. N
SRINIVASA RAO and Project Coordinators Dr. M. SUSHANTH BABU, Mrs.
A.NARMADA/Mr. K. MANOHAR and Mrs. B. INDIRA PRIYADARSHINI/Mrs. J.
SHAILAJA for their timely cooperation while carrying the Mini-project. It is their
friendliness that made me feel free and learn more from them.

Last but not the least we would thank to all those people associated directly or
indirectly with the Mini-project.

Mr. STUDENT NAME

Ms. STUDENT NAME

Mr. STUDENT NAME

 LIST OF FIGURES

A list of figures with figure number, figure title and page number and a list of tables with
table number, table name and page number should be listed after abstract in a separate page
for each with roman numbers like ii, iii..etc.
 LIST OF TABLES

FOR EXAMPLE:

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1.1 Name of the table Page no. 5

Table 2.2 -------------- ----------

 Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction

Solar energy is one of the most abundant and sustainable energy sources available today,
making it a critical component of the global shift toward renewable energy systems. Solar
panels, which convert sunlight into electricity, are widely used in residential, commercial,
and industrial applications. However, the efficiency of solar panels is highly dependent on
their orientation and alignment with the sun. Fixed solar panels are limited in their ability to
capture maximum sunlight throughout the day due to the sun’s changing position.

Fig 1. Efficiency of solar panel

To address this limitation, solar tracking systems have been developed to optimize energy
capture by dynamically adjusting the orientation of solar panels. This project focuses on a
single-axis solar tracker, which rotates the panel along one axis to maintain an optimal angle
with respect to the sun. The control signals for the system are managed using an Arduino
microcontroller, which serves as the core processing unit for real-time adjustments. This
approach provides a cost-effective yet efficient solution for increasing the energy output of
solar panels compared to fixed systems.

1.2 Problem Specification

Fixed solar panel installations often operate below their maximum efficiency due to their
inability to track the sun's movement across the sky. This inefficiency leads to lower energy
production, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon when the sun’s angle is
less favorable. In regions with high solar insolation, the underutilization of sunlight results in
a significant loss of potential energy generation.

The primary challenge is to develop a system that can dynamically track the sun’s position in
real-time while maintaining affordability, reliability, and low energy consumption. Using an
Arduino-based control system offers a robust and programmable platform to address these
challenges effectively. It allows for precise motor control and sensor integration, ensuring
accurate tracking and improved energy efficiency.

1.3 Objectives

The main objectives of this project are as follows:

1. To design and implement a single-axis solar tracker capable of optimizing solar

energy capture.

2. To develop an Arduino-based control system using light-dependent resistors (LDRs)

for sunlight detection.

3. To integrate a motor-driven mechanism for real-time adjustment of the solar panel's

orientation.

4. To analyze the performance of the single-axis tracker in comparison with fixed solar
panels.

5. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and scalability of the proposed solution for

practical applications.

1.4 Layout of the Thesis

This thesis is organized into several chapters, each addressing key aspects of the project:

• Chapter 1: Introduction – Provides an overview of the project, including the

background, problem specification, objectives, and thesis layout.

• Chapter 2: Literature Review – Discusses previous research and existing

technologies related to solar trackers, with emphasis on Arduino-based systems.

• Chapter 3: HARDWARE IMPLEMENTATION – This chapter focuses on the

hardware setup of the single-axis solar tracker. It includes details of the components
such as the Arduino microcontroller, a solar panel, light-dependent resistors
 (LDRs) for detecting sunlight intensity, and a servo motor for adjusting the panel's
orientation along a single axis. The hardware integration and functionality are also
briefly discussed.

• Chapter 4: Results– Presents the experimental results, performance evaluation, and

comparison with fixed solar panels.

• Chapter 5: Conclusion and Future Work – Summarizes the findings, highlights the
project’s contributions, and suggests potential areas for future research.

• Chapter 6: Code used in Arduino - This chapter includes the Arduino code
implemented for the solar tracker system. It provides the logic for reading sensor data,
processing it to determine the sun's position, and controlling the servo motor to adjust
the solar panel's orientation.
 Chapter 2

LITERATURE SURVEY

Solar energy has become an essential renewable energy source, providing a

sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. However, the efficiency of solar
panels heavily depends on the angle at which sunlight strikes them. To optimize
energy generation, solar tracking systems have been designed to adjust solar panels
dynamically, ensuring they face the sun throughout the day.

Single-axis solar trackers, which rotate along a single axis (usually east-west), are a
cost-efficient way to boost the efficiency of solar panels. Research indicates these
systems can increase energy output by as much as 25% compared to fixed-tilt systems
[Singh et al., 2014].

Arduino microcontrollers have gained widespread use in solar tracking projects due to
their low cost, ease of programming, and versatility. Their open-source platform and
strong community support make rapid prototyping and experimentation accessible.
 Key Research Findings and Methods

Sensor-Based Tracking:

• LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) Systems: Numerous studies have investigated the
use of LDRs as primary sensors for sun tracking [Singh et al., 2014]. By measuring
light intensity across multiple LDRs, these systems can determine the best angle for
maximum sunlight exposure.

• Photovoltaic Cell-Based Tracking: Research has shown that photovoltaic cells can
be used both as energy sources and light-sensitive tracking sensors [Eltawil and
Salameh, 2004]. Their sensitivity to sunlight enables them to generate signals to guide
solar tracking systems effectively.

Algorithmic Approaches:

• Phototropic Tracking: This method involves directly tracking the sun’s position
with sensors, ensuring continuous adjustments to the solar panel’s orientation. Studies
suggest this approach typically achieves better energy output than other methods [Jain
and Jain, 2011].

• Clock-Driven Tracking: This approach relies on astronomical calculations and time-

based data to predict the sun's position and adjust the panel accordingly. Although
simpler to implement, its precision can be impacted by weather changes and
variations in local time.

Control Strategies:

• Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) Control: PID controllers are widely

employed to regulate the movement of solar trackers, offering smooth and precise
tracking of the sun.

• Fuzzy Logic Control: Fuzzy logic-based controllers have been explored for their
ability to enhance tracking accuracy and adapt to fluctuating environmental
conditions.
 Conclusion

Single-axis solar trackers powered by Arduino microcontrollers present an affordable

and effective solution for increasing the efficiency of solar energy systems. Ongoing
research in this field, including advancements in sensor technology, intelligent control
systems, and innovative power management techniques, will be vital in maximizing
solar energy output and supporting the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

References:

1. Singh, A. K., et al. (2014). "Design and Implementation of Low-Cost Solar Tracking
System Using Arduino."

2. Eltawil, M. A., and Z. M. Salameh (2004). "Optimal Design of Photovoltaic Arrays

with Series-Parallel Connections."

3. Jain, S. K., and N. C. Jain (2011). "Comparative Analysis of Different Solar Tracking
Systems."
 Chapter 3

HARDWARE IMPLEMENTAION

3.1 Components used:

• Arduino-compatible microcontroller board

• USB cable
• Breadboard
• Jumper wires
• 9 volt battery
• AA batteries – 4
• Bread board
• Light dependent resistors
• Solar Panel

3.2 Block Diagram

Fig 2. Block Diagram

 Components:

1. Arduino UNO (U1):

o The microcontroller is the brain of the solar tracker.

o It reads input signals from light-dependent resistors (LDRs) and processes the
data to control the servo motor.

2. LDRs (Light-Dependent Resistors, R1 and R2):

o These sensors detect light intensity.

o The resistance of the LDRs changes based on the amount of light they receive.
o The two LDRs are placed at an angle to detect the direction of maximum
sunlight.

3. Resistors (R3 and R4, 10kΩ):

o These are pull-down resistors to stabilize the signals from the LDRs.
o They prevent floating voltages at the analog pins of the Arduino by providing
a defined voltage when no input is present.
4. Servo Motor (Servo1):

o It adjusts the solar panel to align it with the direction of maximum sunlight.
o The servo receives signals from the Arduino based on the comparison of the
light intensity from the two LDRs.

5. Solar Panel:

o The solar panel is mounted on the single-axis tracking mechanism.

o It demonstrates the concept of tracking the sun to optimize sunlight exposure

for energy capture.

6. Power Supply :
o The circuit is powered by a 9V power supply.
o SC1 represents a battery pack or external power source that powers both the
Arduino and servo motor.

7. Connections:
o SIG (Signal pin of the Servo): Connected to a digital PWM pin on the
Arduino to receive position control signals.
 o A0 and A1 (Analog pins of Arduino): Connected to the LDRs to read their
light intensity values.

Working Principle:
1. The LDRs measure light intensity at two different points.
2. The Arduino compares the values from the two LDRs.
o If the left LDR (R1) detects more light than the right LDR (R2), the Arduino
adjusts the servo to rotate the solar panel left.
o If the right LDR detects more light, the servo rotates the panel right.
3. This ensures the solar panel is always facing the direction with maximum sunlight.

3.3. Circuit Diagram

Fig 3. Circuit diagram in Tikercad

3.4 Connections:
Connecting the SG90 Servo Motor:

• Attach the orange wire from the servo motor to pin 9 on the Arduino.
• Connect the red wire to the power rail on the breadboard.
• Link the black wire to the ground rail on the breadboard.

Wiring the Photoresistors:

• Connect one terminal of each photoresistor to the breadboard’s power rail.

• Attach the other terminal to one end of a 10kΩ resistor.
• Connect the other end of the resistor to the ground rail on the breadboard.
• Use an analog input pin on the Arduino to connect to the junction between the
photoresistor and the resistor.
•
Connecting the Solar Panel:

• If your solar panel outputs 5V or less, connect its negative (black) wire to the ground
rail and its positive (red) wire to an analog input pin on the Arduino.
• For panels with output greater than 5V, avoid connecting them directly to the
Arduino. Instead, use a multimeter to measure the voltage.
•
Powering the Breadboard:

• Connect the Arduino’s 5V pin to the breadboard’s power rail.

• Link the GND pin from the Arduino to the ground rail on the breadboard.
 Chapter 4

RESULTS

Voltage Comparison: Tracking vs. Non-Tracking

Time of the Voltage (Fixed Panel) Voltage (Tracking Panel)

day
Day 1 Day 2 Day 1 Day 2

8 am 0.8v 1.7v 1.2v 1.1v

10 am 2v 1.9v 2.8v 2.9v

12 pm 3.2v 3.1v 3.4v 3.4v

2 pm 2.8v 2.7 3.3v 3.3v

5 pm 0.9v 0.8 1.5v 1.3v

Observations:

• Tracking Panel: Offers higher voltage consistently by aligning with the sun's
position, especially during early mornings and late afternoons.

• Non-Tracking Panel: Produces lower voltage due to the fixed orientation, which
reduces efficiency at non-optimal angles of sunlight.
Actual Project Setup
Conclusion and Future prospects:

Improved Sensor Technology:

• More sensitive and accurate sensors, such as advanced photodiodes or even small
cameras, can provide more precise sun tracking data.
• This can lead to more accurate tracking algorithms and improved energy output.

Enhanced Tracking Algorithms:

• More sophisticated algorithms, such as those incorporating weather predictions or

machine learning for adaptive control, can optimize tracking performance in real-
time.
• This can help the tracker to anticipate changes in weather conditions and adjust
accordingly.

Simplified Construction and Maintenance:

• Future designs may focus on simpler and more robust mechanical structures, reducing
complexity and maintenance requirements.
• This can make solar trackers more affordable and easier to install and maintain.

Integration with Smart Grids:

• Solar trackers can be integrated with smart grids to optimize energy delivery and
participate in demand response programs.
• This can help to stabilize the grid and improve the overall efficiency of renewable
energy systems.

Increased Accessibility and Affordability:

• Continued research and development can lead to more cost-effective and accessible
solar tracking solutions, making them more attractive to homeowners and businesses.
 Chapter 5

Conclusion and Future Work

Conclusion:

The development of a single-axis solar tracker demonstrated the effectiveness of using simple
yet efficient automation techniques to optimize solar energy capture. By employing an
Arduino-based system with light-dependent resistors and a servo motor, the tracker
successfully aligned the solar panel with the sun's position, resulting in improved energy
efficiency compared to non-tracking systems. This project highlights the potential of low-
cost, scalable solutions for renewable energy applications, making solar power more
accessible and efficient. Future enhancements could incorporate additional sensors or
advanced algorithms for better adaptability. This work serves as a step towards promoting
sustainable energy practices and encourages further research in solar tracking technology.

Future Work:

Improved Sensor Technology:

• More sensitive and accurate sensors, such as advanced photodiodes or even small
cameras, can provide more precise sun tracking data.

• This can lead to more accurate tracking algorithms and improved energy output.

Enhanced Tracking Algorithms:

• More sophisticated algorithms, such as those incorporating weather predictions or

machine learning for adaptive control, can optimize tracking performance in real-
time.

• This can help the tracker to anticipate changes in weather conditions and adjust
accordingly.

Simplified Construction and Maintenance:

• Future designs may focus on simpler and more robust mechanical structures, reducing
complexity and maintenance requirements.

• This can make solar trackers more affordable and easier to install and maintain.
Integration with Smart Grids:

• Solar trackers can be integrated with smart grids to optimize energy delivery and
participate in demand response programs.

• This can help to stabilize the grid and improve the overall efficiency of renewable
energy systems.

Increased Accessibility and Affordability:

• Continued research and development can lead to more cost-effective and accessible
solar tracking solutions, making them more attractive to homeowners and businesses.
 Chapter 6

Code used in Arduino

/*

Arduino solar tracker

*/

// include servo library

#include <Servo.h>

// declare variables for pins

const int light1Pin = A0;

const int light2Pin = A1;

const int solarPin = A2;

const int servoPin = 9;

// variable for servo angle

int angle = 90;

// variables for light sensor readings and difference between them

int light1Reading;

int light2Reading;

int difference;

// margin for difference to move motor

int margin = 50;

// variables for measuring solar panel

int solarReading;

float solarVoltage;

// create servo object and give it a name

Servo servo1;

void setup() { // put your setup code here, to run once:

servo1.attach(servoPin); // attach servo to pin

servo1.write(angle); // set initial servo angle

Serial.begin(9600); // initialize serial communication

void loop() { // put your main code here, to run repeatedly:

// get light sensor values

light1Reading = analogRead(light1Pin);

light2Reading = analogRead(light2Pin);

// calculate difference

difference = light2Reading - light1Reading;

// move the servo depending on the difference

if(difference > margin){ // increase angle if difference is greater than positive margin

if(angle<180){ // only increase the angle if it is already less than 180 degrees

angle = angle + 1;

}
 }

else if(difference < (-1*margin)){ // decrease angle if difference is less than negative
margin

if(angle>0){ // only decrease the angle if it is already greater than than 0

degrees

angle = angle - 1;

else{ // if difference is within +/- margin, do nothing

// this prevents the servo from constantly bouncing back and forth due to small
fluctuations

// move to new servo position

servo1.write(angle);

// read solar panel with analog pin

solarReading = analogRead(solarPin);

// convert the ADC reading (0-1023) to a voltage (0-5.0)

solarVoltage = solarReading * 5.0 / 1023 ;

// print sensor readings - use for calibration

Serial.print("Sensor 1 reading: ");

Serial.print(light1Reading);

Serial.print(" Sensor 2 reading: ");

Serial.print(light2Reading);

Serial.print(" Solar panel voltage: ");

Serial.println(solarVoltage);
 // short delay before next reading

delay(100);