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Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System for Enhanced Photovoltaic Efficiency in Tropical Climates

Author

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  • Jorge Manuel Barrios-Sánchez

    (Department of Multidisciplinary Studies, Engineering Division, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, University of Guanajuato, Yuriria 38940, Guanajuato, Mexico)

  • Ernesto Isaac Tlapanco-Ríos

    (Department of Multidisciplinary Studies, Engineering Division, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, University of Guanajuato, Yuriria 38940, Guanajuato, Mexico)

Abstract

This research focuses on the design and implementation of a movement strategy for a photovoltaic (PV) system, presented through four phases: First came the design of the mechanical part and the selection of geared motors with high torque and low power consumption, while having a solid mechanical structure that supports the panel. An open-loop control was selected using solar positioning equations, with the inputs defined as solar equations. The Intel Edison development board was chosen for programming the solar equations in Python. Two linear potentiometers served as sensing elements, where analog–digital characterization was conducted for each movement. The plant started with the static panel at a latitude of 7° south, oriented toward the equator, achieving a performance of 177.62 kWh. With the solar tracker, a performance of 232.38 kWh was obtained, resulting in an efficiency increase of 27%. Given the aim of enhancing PV efficiency through increased utilization, satisfactory results were achieved. Another advantage of the unit is that it is designed to support more than one panel.

Suggested Citation

  • Jorge Manuel Barrios-Sánchez & Ernesto Isaac Tlapanco-Ríos, 2025. "Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System for Enhanced Photovoltaic Efficiency in Tropical Climates," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(3), pages 1-18, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:3:p:1117-:d:1580082
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Henrik Zsiborács & Attila Bai & József Popp & Zoltán Gabnai & Béla Pályi & István Farkas & Nóra Hegedűsné Baranyai & Mihály Veszelka & László Zentkó & Gábor Pintér, 2018. "Change of Real and Simulated Energy Production of Certain Photovoltaic Technologies in Relation to Orientation, Tilt Angle and Dual-Axis Sun-Tracking. A Case Study in Hungary," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 10(5), pages 1-19, May.
    2. Yao, Yingxue & Hu, Yeguang & Gao, Shengdong & Yang, Gang & Du, Jinguang, 2014. "A multipurpose dual-axis solar tracker with two tracking strategies," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 72(C), pages 88-98.
    3. Si, Zhiyuan & Yang, Ming & Yu, Yixiao & Ding, Tingting, 2021. "Photovoltaic power forecast based on satellite images considering effects of solar position," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 302(C).
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