Advanced Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System with IoT-Driven Real-Time Monitoring for Optimized Efficiency

Photovoltaic (PV) cells can transform solar energy into electrical energy. However, variations in light intensity and the changing position of the sun typically compromise their efficiency. Fixed solar panels experience reduced efficiency when not correctly oriented with the sun, resulting in decreased power generation. To optimize efficiency, it is necessary to implement a tracking system that ensures the panels remain aligned toward the sun. To achieve this objective, a prototype dual-axis solar tracking system was developed. This system utilizes Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) sensors and is controlled by an Arduino UNO microcontroller. It enables movement in both vertical and horizontal directions. Four Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) and two servo motors enable the panels to track sunlight, achieving ideal orientation. Performance monitoring is achieved by integrating the system with the ThingSpeak IoT platform using the Node MCU ESP8266. This integration allows for the tracking of energy data obtained from the sensors. Compared to a fixed-axis device, the dual-axis tracker demonstrated a 21.83% increase in efficiency. A real-time monitoring system offers a practical means to assess the operation of the solar tracker.