Abstract:

Photovoltaic systems (PV systems) are capable of converting the sunlight to electrical energy. With the invention of solar tracking systems, the efficiency of these systems can be enhanced. This is the working paper that discusses the design and implementation of a low cost dual axis solar tracker which is optimized for performance and energy efficiency based on a Raspberry Pi image processing model. Unlike the conventional systems that use multiple light sensors, our proposed system makes use of the Raspberry Pi Camera Module which captures real-time images of the sky. The captured images are processed in order to find the position of the sun which helps in determining the optimum position for the solar panel to be located at. This results in the solar panel receiving the maximum solar radiance to be present on the PV surface. The algorithm is also capable of vertical and horizontal adjustments to the panel in order to set it to the optimal position at all times throughout the day. The system is designed in such a way that energy can be conserved and programmed sleep mode after sunset. Regular operation will also resume after sunrise. Due to the lack of other hardware sensor parts, the system has cost benefits. The system is easy to use and can be deployeed at ease. The reliability is consistent throughout any weather conditions ranging from overcast to clear skies.In summary, the solar tracker based on Raspberry Pi technology offers a smart yet cost-effective way to optimize the harvesting of solar energy.