Design of a Support Structure: Mechanism for Automated Tracking of 1 kWe Solar PV Power System

Abstract

In the current scenario of increasing environmental problems and their global effects, there is a pertinent need to explore research in renewable energy technologies that do not affect the environment adversely, yet sustain the progress of mankind’s growth and development. This paper presents the work intended to address the aforementioned needs by designing cost-effective solar tracking units for improving the solar power generation. Literature review reveals that tracking the Sun in both East–West direction and North–South direction can improve the power output by 25–30 %. This improvement can particularly play a significant role in the scenario of large scale grid connected solar power generation. Within this frame work, the present study attempts to develop a solar tracking system that can enable the photovoltaic solar panels to effectively trap the available solar energy by tracking the Sun. The system is designed such that it can withstand the fluctuating wind loads, remain safe even in the most adverse weather conditions, and possess the quality of frugality, ease of maintenance and repair.