Solar Tracker using Arduino

 Solar Tracker using Arduino 


Introduction


A solar tracker is a device that automatically orients a solar panel toward the sun to capture maximum energy throughout the day. This project uses Arduino and LDR sensors to control servo motors that adjust the solar panel’s position. It’s ideal for renewable energy projects, academic demonstrations, and DIY applications.



Components Required


Arduino Uno


Solar Panel


2 x LDR Sensors


2 x Servo Motors (SG90 or MG995)


Resistors (10kΩ)


Breadboard & Jumper Wires


Battery / Power Supply



Working Principle


LDR sensors detect sunlight intensity in different directions.


The Arduino reads LDR values and decides which direction the panel should face.


Servo motors move the solar panel horizontally (east-west) and vertically (up-down).


This dual-axis movement ensures maximum sunlight capture throughout the day, improving solar panel efficiency.



Block Diagram






Circuit Diagram


Connect LDR sensors to analog pins (A0, A1) via resistors.


Servo motors connected to PWM pins (D9, D10).


Solar panel connected to battery for charging (optional for demo).


Arduino powered via USB or battery.






Arduino Code


#include <Servo.h>


Servo servoX;  

Servo servoY;


int ldrLeft = A0;

int ldrRight = A1;


void setup() {

  servoX.attach(9);

  servoY.attach(10);

  Serial.begin(9600);

}


void loop() {

  int leftValue = analogRead(ldrLeft);

  int rightValue = analogRead(ldrRight);


  if (leftValue > rightValue + 50) {

    servoX.write(servoX.read() + 1);

  } else if (rightValue > leftValue + 50) {

    servoX.write(servoX.read() - 1);

  }

  delay(50);

}


This is basic single-axis

If you want dual axis coment me I will send you 


Applications

Solar farms for improved efficiency.       
 
Rural street lights powered by solar

Academic renewable energy demonstrations

Off-grid energy solutions



Advantages


Maximizes solar power output


Energy-efficient and eco-friendly


Simple and low-cost automation


Ideal for students and hobbyists

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