Aquino, Jojit Dameg

Abstract:The sun is the ultimate source of energy. However, harvesting its energy remains a challenge because of the limited efficiency of the available photovoltaic (PV) modules. This study employed developmental and comparative-experimental research designs in developing a Single Axis Solar Tracker. Results of the study revealed that the newly developed solar tracker is non-microcontroller-based and utilizes an OP-Amp integrated circuit. The device helped the PV module harvest energy up to 9 sun-hour, an increase of 48.04% in harvested energy in a day. Moreover, the alignment of the solar tracker is almost the same with respect to the angle of elevation of the sun at noon time.

Keywords:Accuracy, Efficiency, OP-Amp, Photovoltaic module, Single Axis, Solar Tracker