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Assessment of Single-Axis Solar Tracking System Efficiency in Equatorial Regions: A Case Study of Manta, Ecuador

Author

Listed:
  • Marcos A. Ponce-Jara

    (Faculty of Engineering, Industry and Architecture, Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí, Av. Circunvalación S/N, Manta 130213, Ecuador)

  • Ivan Pazmino

    (Faculty of Engineering, Industry and Architecture, Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí, Av. Circunvalación S/N, Manta 130213, Ecuador)

  • Ángelo Moreira-Espinoza

    (Faculty of Engineering, Industry and Architecture, Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí, Av. Circunvalación S/N, Manta 130213, Ecuador)

  • Alfonso Gunsha-Morales

    (Faculty of Engineering Sciences, Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, Av. Quito km. 11/2 vía a Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, Quevedo 120301, Ecuador)

  • Catalina Rus-Casas

    (Electronic Engineering and Automatic Department, University of Jaén, Las Lagunillas Campus, A3 Building, 23071 Jaén, Spain
    Center for Advanced Studies in Earth, Energy and Environmental Sciences CEACTEMA, University of Jaén, 23071 Jaén, Spain)

Abstract

Ecuador is grappling with a severe energy crisis, marked by frequent power outages. A recent study explored solar energy efficiency in the coastal city of Manta using an IoT real-time monitoring system to compare static photovoltaic (PV) systems with two single-axis solar tracking systems: one based on astronomical programming and the other using light-dependent resistor (LDR) sensors. Results showed that both tracking systems outperformed the static PV system, with net gains of 31.8% and 37.0%, respectively. The astronomical-programming-based system had a slight edge, operating its stepper motor intermittently for two minutes per hour, while the LDR system required continuous motor energization. The single-axis tracker using astronomical programming demonstrated notable advantages in energy efficiency and complexity, making it suitable for equatorial regions like Manta. The study also suggested potential further gains by adjusting solar positioning at shorter intervals, such as every 15 or 30 min. These findings enhance our understanding of solar tracking performance in equatorial environments, offering valuable insights for optimizing solar energy systems in regions with high solar radiation. By emphasizing customized solar tracking mechanisms, this research presents promising solutions to Ecuador’s energy crisis and advances sustainable energy practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Marcos A. Ponce-Jara & Ivan Pazmino & Ángelo Moreira-Espinoza & Alfonso Gunsha-Morales & Catalina Rus-Casas, 2024. "Assessment of Single-Axis Solar Tracking System Efficiency in Equatorial Regions: A Case Study of Manta, Ecuador," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(16), pages 1-19, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:16:p:3946-:d:1453085
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Almonacid, F. & Rus, C. & Pérez-Higueras, P. & Hontoria, L., 2011. "Calculation of the energy provided by a PV generator. Comparative study: Conventional methods vs. artificial neural networks," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 36(1), pages 375-384.
    2. Sebastijan Seme & Bojan Štumberger & Miralem Hadžiselimović & Klemen Sredenšek, 2020. "Solar Photovoltaic Tracking Systems for Electricity Generation: A Review," Energies, MDPI, vol. 13(16), pages 1-24, August.
    3. Dobrotkova, Zuzana & Surana, Kavita & Audinet, Pierre, 2018. "The price of solar energy: Comparing competitive auctions for utility-scale solar PV in developing countries," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 118(C), pages 133-148.
    4. Vieira, R.G. & Guerra, F.K.O.M.V. & Vale, M.R.B.G. & Araújo, M.M., 2016. "Comparative performance analysis between static solar panels and single-axis tracking system on a hot climate region near to the equator," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 64(C), pages 672-681.
    5. Cevallos-Sierra, Jaime & Ramos-Martin, Jesús, 2018. "Spatial assessment of the potential of renewable energy: The case of Ecuador," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 81(P1), pages 1154-1165.
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