Optimization of Sun Tracking Data Handling to Improve Efficiency of PV Module

Abstract

The procedure of tracking the sun depends on azimuth, altitude and declination angle of sun, latitude and longitude of a location and others. The orientation of sun around the earth can be tracked by using sun tracking mechanisms to collect the maximum percentage of incidents sun ray normal to the panel. This study is conducted to meet objective i.e. optimizing data handling. Three case studies have been implemented. In the first case, a computerized sun tracking device is assumed to rotate the photovoltaic panel as per the sun movement. The output is accurate, but it is expensive as typical multiple sensors, mechanical drive and microcontroller are used. In the second scenario, the solar panel is fixed at sun azimuth (ɸ) 180° and altitude 58° angle which causes more variations in the percentage of incident sun ray normal to the panel throughout the day. Whereas, in the third case, the panel is supposed to change its direction according to the 12 paths (trajectory) of sun instead of 365 paths and each path is comprised with the monthly average of the sun azimuth and altitude angle. This procedure will reduce data handling/ sun tracking cost as compared to the first case. How to cite this article: Taheem A, Sachdeva A, Sharma VS. Optimization of Sun Tracking Data Handling to Improve Efficiency of PV Module. J Adv Res Alt Energ Env Eco 2019; 6(1&2): 1-15. DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2455.3093.201901