The effectiveness of Solar Tracker Use on Solar Panels to The Output of The Generated Electricity Power

Abstract

With the aim of optimizing the electrical power output of the solar panels, the solar panels are installed facing perpendicular to the sunlight, then solar panels that can be moved automatically to follow the direction of the sun position. A solar tracker is made PT. Pertamina Plaju RU-3, using 3 units of Solar Power Plant (PLTS) equipped with Solar Tracker, using an actuator that moves solar panels facing the direction from sunrise to sunset. The effectiveness test of the solar tracker on the output power of solar panels is done by adjusting the position 3 unit PLTS against the sunlight, namely at Tracking and Static (Fixed) Position. Arrangements were made in several combinations of positions and measurement of the electrical power output. From the measurement results, obtained a graph that describes the characteristics of changes in output power that are not affected. This is caused by the electrical energy generated by the solar panels only occur optimally from 10 AM until 2 PM. When heading east before 10 AM and west after 2 PM, solar panels absorb solar energy very low. Solar tracker does not increase the efficiency of solar panel power output. Thus the Solar Panel installed in an area close to the equator does not require a Solar Tracker, and it would be better if the solar panel is positioned statically or fixed, with the position of the solar panel facing upright perpendicular to the direction of the sun coming at 12 AM.