International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 10 Issue: 08 | Aug 2023
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
An investigation of an Arduino-based solar tracking system with panel surface cleaning mechanism Srinivasa Murthy MK1, Shivanandappa N D2, Satya Prema3 1Assistant Professor, Dept. of Mech. Engg. JNN College of Engineering, Shivamogga, Navule, Karnataka, India 2Assistant Professor, Dept. of Mech. Engg. JNN College of Engineering, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India
3Assistant Professor, Dept. of Mech. Engg. JNN College of Engineering, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India ---------------------------------------------------------------------***---------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract - Solar energy presents a clean, readily accessible,
in rural areas. On this count, only 40% of residences in India currently have access to public power, and this is not always the case. In India, where there is no reliable source of electricity, people have begun to embrace the tradition of producing their own power. Expense of living is quite high, especially in the rural areas of the nation, due to the rising expense of using fossil fuels to generate power. Additionally, the usage of fossil fuels has polluted the environment, which is harmful to human health. The greenhouse effect is brought on by the carbon dioxide released. Deforestation of the land as well as air and water pollution result from this. Because solar energy only comes from the sun, it does not release carbon dioxide, preventing the greenhouse effect. India solar energy development has the potential to provide employment. Particularly as compared to coal mining and oil extraction, employment in the renewable energy sector would lower occupational dangers. Due to its abundance and environmental friendliness, solar energy is becoming one of the most dependable sources of electricity.
and abundant alternative source of power in nature. Harnessing this energy for electricity generation offers significant benefits. However, fixed Photovoltaic (PV) panels have limitations, as they can only extract maximum energy during a specific time frame, typically from 12 noon to 2 PM in southern parts of India, leading to reduced energy efficiency. Further due to high dust atmosphere the panels are covered with 0.5 to 1 mm thick mud dusts. This will check much of the solar light source reaching the panel. The presence of dust on solar panels can lead to a reduction in their power output. To address this issue, it becomes crucial to enhance the energy efficiency of PV solar panels by implementing a solar tracking system and a cleaning cum wiping system. This study employs an Arduino-based solar tracking system and cleaning model utilizing Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) to gauge sunlight intensity. The PV solar panel is adjusted accordingly to optimize energy capture as it tracks the sun's movement. The tracking mechanism utilizes a servo motor controlled by a microcontroller, responding to signals from the LDRs. Also motor driven wipers are designed to operate at intervals. The conclusive findings clearly indicate that the solar tracking panel produces a greater amount of energy in comparison to a stationary panel with a pristine surface. Key Words: Solar Energy, Microcontroller, Panel Cleaning
Arduino,
Solar tracking systems optimize the positioning of solar panels, maximizing sunlight exposure and increasing energy generation, which is crucial for meeting India's growing energy demand. Solar tracking increases the overall efficiency of solar installations, allowing for higher power output per unit area. This efficiency gain translates into improved cost-effectiveness and a higher return on investment for solar projects. Solar tracking helps align energy generation with peak demand periods, contributing to grid stability and facilitating the integration of renewable energy into India's power grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting sustainable energy transition.
Tracking,
1.INTRODUCTION South India has a tropical climate with ample sunshine throughout the year. This region receives high solar irradiation levels, making it an ideal location for solar energy generation. Installing solar panels in South India allows harnessing this abundant solar resource efficiently. Solar panel installations promote energy independence by reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based energy sources. South India, like the rest of the country, faces challenges related to energy security and power shortages. Solar power installations can help meet the increasing energy demand, especially during peak hours, and reduce the strain on the conventional power grid. Southern part of India is one of the tropical climate zone with temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees and average of 6.25 hours of sunshine per day. Though states like Karanataka, Tamilnadu and Kerala have significant electrification rate the power cutoff rates are high
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Keeping all the mentioned aspects in the mind a system with optimal and effect enhancement of solar panels has be developed. A system that tracks the sun will be able to determine its position in a non-linear way, claims reference [2]. This system's operation ought to be managed independently [3]. A solar PV panel will produce the most electricity when it is angled directly towards the sun and with clean surface the potential can be further enhanced.
2
Literature Reviews
A solar cell is a device that uses the photovoltaic effect to convert light energy into electrical energy. The foundation of
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