Instant Weather Control for Efficient Sun Tracking

Abstract

In our recent study [1], we presented the instrument instantly measuring the energy coming from sun with high precision. In the current study we discuss the efficiency of real-time measurements of sun intensity and how they should be organized to optimize solar PV tracking. We reviewed the operation of single-axis tracker systems (SATS) described by different institutions. Solar panels installed on SATS can generate an additional up to 35% energy per day compared to energy collected by fixed tilt systems. Although the movement of SATS does not consume a significant amount of energy per every 15˚ step, throughout the day it would be measurable amount of energy wasted. Sun tracking algorithms are often controlled by weather forecast over a given area. This forecast does not specify weather conditions at the local spot where the solar array is positioned. Most important, it does not produce real-time direct measurements of sun intensity. We developed the algorithm which records the direct energy of sun in the position “A”. When sun moves 15˚ step to position “B” our system measures simultaneously direct sun energy in “A” and “B”. The measurements sun energy is repeated every 10 seconds in both positions. In about 1 minute the measured values are averaged. With steady clouded skies or under conditions with fast moving clouds the measurements could be repeated for another 1 – 2 minutes.  If position “B” would demonstrate that more energy (compare to position “A”) could be collected, the system will command sun tracker to “MOVE”. If due to weather conditions the sun’s irradiance in position “B” is not promising, the algorithm will “HOLD” panels in the position “A”. The current study offers instant weather control of sun tracking after a brief review of worldwide status of solar technology and trends of sun tracking.