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Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6, 237–262
https://doi.org/10.1093/ce/zkae085
Advance access publication 11 November 2024
Review Article
Automatic solar tracking system: a review pertaining to
advancements and challenges in the current scenario
Paramjeet Singh Paliyal1, Surajit Mondal1,*,, Samar Layek2, Piyush Kuchhal1, and Jitendra Kumar Pandey3
1Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, School of Advanced Engineering, UPES, Bidholi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
2Department of Physics, Applied Science Cluster, School of Advanced Engineering, UPES, Bidholi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
3HILL (Himalayan Institute for Learning and Leadership), UPES, Bidholi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
*Corresponding author. E-mail: surajitmondalee@gmail.com
Abstract
An automatic solar tracking system is an approach for optimizing the generation of solar power and modifying the angles and dir-
ection of a solar panel by considering changes in the position and path of the sun. The performance status of an automatic solar
tracking system depends on various factors, including its design, location, and maintenance or repairs. The solar energy from the sun
that the Earth intercepts is approximately 1.8 × 1011 MW, which is thousands of times greater than the intensity at which the Earth
now uses all other commercially available energy sources combined. Currently, research into automatic solar trackers is on the rise,
as solar energy is abundant in nature, but its use in a highly efcient way is still lacking. This paper provides a detailed literature re-
view and highlights some key advancements and challenges associated with state-of-the-art automatic solar tracking systems. The
performance of the dual-axis photovoltaic tracking system outperforms that of the stationary systems by more than 27% based on
the overall system efciency. Under diverse weather conditions, the efciency of the scheduled-based solar tracking systems was en-
hanced by 4.2% compared with that of the light-dependent resistor-based solar trackers.
Received: 18 April 2024. Accepted: 25 September 2024
© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of National Institute of Clean-and-Low-Carbon Energy
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which
permits unrestricted reuse, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
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238 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
Graphical abstract
Single
Axis
Reduced
Maintenance
Enhanced
Tracking
Algorithm
Cost
Analysis
IoT
AIML
Utility
Scale
Installation
Commercial
&
Residential
Off-Grid
Systems Agriculture CSP
Plants
Increasing
Energy
Efficiency
Optimizing
Solar
Collector
Maximizing
Solar
Insolation
Increasing
Performance
&
Productivity
Dual
Axis
Types
Scope
Application
Need
Automatic
Solar
Tracking
System
Keywords: automatic solar tracking; PV system; solar collectors; dual-axis tracking; single-axis tracking
1. Introduction
In the current scenario, the load demand for energy increases
daily, and the current resources for feeding the electrical load
demands are not sufcient. The electrical load uctuates
throughout the day, and to full these energy demands, renew-
able energy is highly important because research on renewable
energy is trending. Fossil fuels release greenhouse gases such
as carbon dioxide, trapping heat and causing global warming.
Renewables such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy produce
no greenhouse gases that mitigate climate change impacts. As
renewable energy is abundant in nature in the form of sunlight
and wind, the use of these renewable resources for power pro-
duction makes the power system efcient and smart. This decen-
tralization makes the grid less vulnerable to single-point failures
and improves overall resilience. Solar panels convert sunlight
directly into electricity for utility-scale power plants, and solar
thermal systems capture heat from the sun for water heating,
space heating, and industrial processes. To increase the efciency
of solar panels, a solar tracking strategy is used by automatically
adjusting the angle of the panels throughout the day to directly
face the sun, and trackers can generate 20%–40% more energy
than statically mounted panels can generate [1]. This approach
can be particularly advantageous in regions with ample sunshine
that benets the most from increased sun exposure. When space
is limited, maximizing energy per unit area becomes crucial; if
electricity costs vary depending on the time of day, trackers can
optimize generation during peak periods.
An automatic solar tracking system (STS) is an emerging tech-
nology that rotates a solar panel or solar concentrator to various
positions throughout the day by monitoring the current position
and path of the sun. The main aim of any automatic STS is to
maximize the amount of sunlight that the solar concentrator or
module will receive, resulting in the maximization of the overall
energy outputs of the system. Solar tracking can be performed
in two ways: single-axis tracking and double-axis tracking. Here,
the single-axis STS is used to adjust the angle and position of
the solar panel or collector in one direction following the path
of the sun (often east to west), and the dual-axis tracker is used
to adjust the solar panel and collector in two directions. Many
studies on solar energy have analysed solar energy markets in
India, as it is the second most populated nation in the world and
is experiencing a continuous increase in electric power demand.
Consequently, the government is exploring renewable energy
sources as viable substitutes for traditional supplies [2].
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Automatic solar tracking system | 239
Currently, India’s utilization of renewable energy is positioned
fth globally and is increasing, comprising 13.22% of the aggre-
gate energy consumption in the form of solar energy. Hence, in
this study, the current investigation involved the modelling of
any substantial 20 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) power facility to
evaluate its technological and economic efcacy. This evaluation
was conducted via the system advisor model (SAM) [3]. In 2022,
the global market for solar trackers was valued at $3.2 billion.
By 2033, the market is expected to grow, reaching a value of ap-
proximately $7.2 billion. It is anticipated that solar tracker sales
will increase in tandem with the growing awareness of energy
conservation and the shift towards renewable energy sources.
A variety of electrical components are utilized by solar trackers,
including actuators and sensors, to assist the solar collector in
concentrating sunlight to capture energy [4]. This study presents
a comprehensive analysis of various solar tracking technologies,
categorizing them based on several key parameters, such as the
number of axes they utilize, the activity level of the tracking
unit, the control strategies employed, and the specic tracking
methodologies implemented. This literature review helps readers
understand the latest advancements in STS and the variability
of their parameters. It also traces the path of the sun and shows
how solar insolation changes over time, which is applicable to
any latitude or longitude. Additionally, this review compares data
based on criteria such as the axis of rotation, tracking method,
accuracy, and energy efciency.
Figure 1 shows the network visualization of the keywords re-
lated to STS research papers. This network visualization of the
similarities shows how research on STS is trending to optimize
and increase the performance of solar panels and solar concen-
trators. With the help of this gure, how all the keywords are
connected can be determined. The maximum number of key-
words related to STS used is the maximum number of power
point trackers used, which directly indicates that researchers are
working more on maximum power point tracking (MPPT), as it is
the most repeated keyword in STS-related research articles in the
Scopus database [5, 6]. This analysis has been performed by using
the visualization of similarities (VOS) viewer and will be bene-
cial for the reader to know where the research in STS is trending
and tilting.
Figure 2 shows that the number of publications per year based
on Scopus data with the keywords ‘solar tracking system’, ‘photo-
voltaics’, and ‘renewable energy’ has increased annually and
continues to rise. These data are shown from 2000 to 2024 (June).
After conducting the statistical analysis, the plotted gure shows
how the research in solar tracking technology is increasing daily
to make the solar panels and collectors more efcient and opti-
mize them. As in the current scenario, the energy demand con-
tinues to increase, and researchers are continuously investigating
renewable energy sources, which can be converted to electricity
and utilized to power electrical equipment; this is an abundant
and environmentally friendly energy source that meets the cri-
teria. If 0.16% of the Earth’s surface is exploited for solar energy,
20 terawatts of power are produced, which is double what the
planet consumes in fossil fuels [7, 8].
In Fig. 3, an overview of the structural diagram is shown for
illustration in this manuscript. Section 1 provides a detailed
overview of an automatic STS. Section 1.1 shows the important
solar tracking parameters considered. Section 1.2 presents pre-
vious similar works on the study of STS. Section 1.3 shows how
Figure 1. Network visualization of the similarities for the Scopus data, based on keywords related to the STS.
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240 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
the sun’s path is traced for applications in solar tracking. Section
2 presents the history of the STS, which describes how solar
tracking was used in ancient times. Section 3 presents the classi-
cation of the STS, and a comparative analysis of different solar
tracking technologies is shown with key ndings and perform-
ance indices. Section 4 presents the results and discussion based
on the solar tracking parameters of the different technologies.
Section 5 presents the conclusion and future scope, and Section
6 provides references.
1.1 Solar tracking parameters
The azimuth and elevation angles are the main sun-tracking
parameters that are essential for maximizing solar energy acqui-
sition. Solar panels are directed toward the sun as it moves across
the sky during the day because the azimuth angle tells us the
horizontal direction of the sun concerning the observer’s position
on Earth. In contrast, the elevation angle refers to the vertical
angle of the sun above the horizon and is used to tilt solar panels
to maximize the amount of solar energy that reaches them [9].
60k
50k
Keywords
Solar Tracking System
Photovoltaics
Renewable Energy
40k
30k
No. of SCI publications
20k
10k
0
Timeline (year)
2000
2002
2006
2004
2008
2010
2012
2014
2016
2018
2020
2022
2024
June
Figure 2. Science Citation Index (SCI) data for the number of publications per year by the keywords ‘solar tracking system’, ‘photovoltaics’, and
‘renewable energy’.
History of Automatic
Solar Tracking System
Introduction
1.1 Tracking Parameters
1.2 previous similar work
1.3 Sun Path Tracing
Classification and comparative analysis
of different Solar Tracking System
3.1 Single-axis tracker and types
3.2 Dual-axis tracker and types
3.3 Classification based on the Activity
of the tracking unit
3.4 Classification Based on Control
Strategies
3.5 Solar tracking system using
Sensors, time, and date
3.6 Key Advancements, Performance
Analysis, and Key Findings in the
Different Solar Tracking Technologies
Result and Discussions
Abstract
1
2
3
4
5
6
Conclusion
References
Figure 3. Overview structure diagram and illustration of the study sequence.
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Automatic solar tracking system | 241
STS can guarantee that panels are always positioned optimally
for maximum energy production by dynamically adjusting these
angles based on variables such as the time of day, date, latitude,
and even weather. This greatly improves the efciency and output
of solar power installations. Table 1 presents the parameters that
should be considered before framing the solar tracking strategy.
The angle at which the solar panels are inclined about the hori-
zontal plane is known as the tilt angle of a STS. This angle uc-
tuates based on the latitude of the installation site, the time of
day, and the season. This is essential for maximizing the quantity
of solar energy captured by the panels throughout the day. The
tracking system usually dynamically adjusts the tilt angle to ensure
that the panels are oriented to receive the most sunlight possible,
which maximizes the energy output. STS can dramatically increase
the total efciency of solar power generation by continuously modi-
fying the tilt angle in response to the position of the sun [20].
The tilt angle is also a mandatory parameter for solar tracking
in which the solar panels are inclined about the horizontal plane
and is known as the tilt angle of a STS. This angle uctuates based
on the latitude of the installation site, the time of day, and the
season. This is essential for maximizing the quantity of solar
energy captured by the panels throughout the day. The tracking
system usually dynamically adjusts the tilt angle to ensure that
the panels are oriented to receive the most sunlight possible,
which maximizes the energy output. STS can dramatically in-
crease the total efciency of solar power generation by continu-
ously modifying the tilt angle in response to the position of the
sun [21]. The equations related to STS are as follows.
Single-axis tracking panel tilt angle (θ):
θ=ϕ+β∗sin (ω)
(1)
where, θ = tilt angle of the solar panel in degrees (°), φ = latitude of
the location in degrees (°), β = slope angle of the panel concerning
the horizontal in degrees (°), and ω = hour angle (°)
Dual-axis tracking panel tilt angle (θ):
θ
=
Asin
(
cos
(
Z
)
∗sin
(
A))
(2)
where θ = tilt angle of the solar panel, Z = solar zenith angle, and
A = solar azimuth angle.
Figure 4a shows the periodic variation in the angle of the
sun concerning the equatorial plane that occurs periodically
throughout the year due to the axial inclination of the Earth.
Biannually, during the equinox, the hour angle and solar declin-
ation are depicted in the second gure about an equatorial plane.
During these specied time intervals, the Sun’s angle to the equa-
torial plane is precisely zero, indicating that it is situated directly
above the equator. The solstices, which occur around June 21 and
December 21, designate the moment when the solar angle be-
comes at its greatest value relative to the equatorial plane. In the
Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice takes place around
the 21st of June, when the sun reaches its highest point approxi-
mately 23.5° above the equatorial plane [22].
The sun is perceived to be directly overhead at 23.5° in northern
latitude, which is the Tropic of Cancer. In contrast, the Tropic of
Capricorn, located at 23.5° south latitude, exhibits the sun’s ap-
parent aspect at its minimum. The Sun achieves its minimum
angle below the equatorial plane in the Northern Hemisphere
on December 21, deviating by approximately 23.5°, in the winter
solstice season. As a result, the Sun is positioned perpendicular
to the Tropic of Capricorn in the atmosphere, whereas its min-
imal elevation is perceived from the Tropic of Cancer. The equi-
noxes, which occur around the 20th of March and the 22nd of
September, are distinguished by the Sun’s angle of 0° concerning
the equatorial plane. As a result, the Sun is perceived to be posi-
tioned directly above the equator [23].
Figure 4b shows that the azimuth angle in an automatic STS is
an angle between a solar panel and the position of the sun along
the observer’s horizon [24]. An azimuth solar angle for the sun is
Table 1. Parameters to be considered before framing the STS for installations.
Factors to be considered Description References
Tracking method To determine the tracking method axis or dual axis:
• 25%–30% performance gain for a single axis.
• Bumps up the performance by another 5%–10% in dual axis.
[10]
Tracking accuracy • Determined by energy demands, available solar resources, and precision requirements.
• Higher precision ranging from 0.5° to 1° often leads to increased energy output but may
increase complexity and cost.
[11]
Tracking range • Single axis typically covers 180° from east to west.
• Dual axis has a greater range for tracking azimuth and elevation of the sun.
• 180°–360° for azimuth, allowing for full east‒west tracking.
• The elevation range can span from 0° to 90°.
[12]
Mounting type • Fixed axis in which panels are tilted along a xed axis.
• Polar-aligned where panels are aligned parallel to the Earth’s axis.
[13]
Sensor type Sensors like LDRs, photodiodes, or digital sun sensors provide feedback for the tracking
system to adjust panel position.
[14]
Control system The controller and software receive sensor information to adjust panel position using motors
or actuators.
[15]
Power supply It can be powered by the panels themselves or a separate source like batteries or smaller
solar panels.
[16]
Durability and resistance Materials and construction should withstand various weather conditions including wind,
rain, snow, and temperature uctuations.
[17]
Maintenance and servicing Accessibility to components, lubrication needs, recalibration requirements, and overall ease
of maintenance should be considered during design.
[18]
Cost and budget Installation costs, ongoing maintenance, and potential return on investment through
increased energy production.
[19]
LDR, light-dependent resistor.
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242 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
depicted; it is the horizontal angle that determines the optimal
orientation for solar panels to receive maximum sunlight [25].
Solar azimuth angle (A):
A=atan2(sin (ω),(cos (ϕ)∗tan (δ)−sin (ϕ)∗cos (ω)))
(3)
where, A = solar azimuth angle, ω = hour angle, φ = latitude of
the location, and δ = declination angle [all parameters are in de-
grees (°)].
The variation in the angle of a sun with an equatorial plane is
caused by the axial tilt of the Earth and occurs periodically over a
year. Figure 4a shows the hour angle and solar declination about
an equatorial plane biannually during the equinox. During these
periods, the Sun’s angle to the equatorial plane is nil, indicating
that the Sun is positioned above the equator [26]. The solstices,
which take place approximately on June 21 and December 21,
mark the point at which the angle of a sun concerning the equa-
torial plane reaches its highest value [27]. In particular, in the
Northern Hemisphere, the sun attains its maximum altitude
above the equatorial plane, which is approximately 23.5 degrees,
during the summer solstice occurring around June 21 [28]. Over
the Tropic of Cancer, which is located at 23.5° north latitude,
the Sun is observed to be overhead. Conversely, at the Tropic of
Capricorn, which is situated at 23.5° south latitude, the Sun is per-
ceived to be at its lowest angle in the sky. By December 21st in the
Northern Hemisphere, the Sun reaches its lowest angle below the
equatorial plane, which is approximately 23.5° during the winter
solstice [29]. Consequently, the Sun is positioned perpendicu-
larly above the Tropic of Capricorn, whereas it is situated at its
minimum elevation in the atmosphere when observed from the
Tropic of Cancer. The equinoxes, which take place approximately
on March 20 and September 22, are characterized by the sun’s
angle relative to the equatorial plane being zero. Consequently,
the Sun is observed to be directly overhead at the equator [30].
The zenith angle (Fig. 4c) in a solar tracker pertains to the an-
gular measurement between the location of the sun in the sky
and a vertical axis. The altitude of the sun above the horizon is
determined by the vertical angle [31]. The zenith angle uctuates
throughout the day because of the rotation of the sun across the
sky, and the latitude of the installation site of the solar panels is
a determining factor in the variability of the zenith angle [32].
Research into tracking systems started immediately after the cre-
ation of solar systems in the middle of the 19th century. Different
tracking system types, drives, designs, and tracking tactics were
dened along with the evolution of tracking systems in this study
[33]. This study claims that this survey will help researchers and
practicing engineers choose the best control and structure al-
gorithm for real-time applications as a foundation for further
advancements in current methods in India, which has broad lati-
tude and longitude and peak climatic and seasonal variations
[34].
Solar zenith angle (Z):
Z=acos (sin (ϕ)∗sin (δ)+cos (ϕ)∗cos (δ)∗cos (ω))
(4)
where, Z = zenith angle, φ = latitude of the location, δ = declin-
ation angle, and ω = hour angle, [all parameters are in degrees (°)].
Figure 4d shows the uctuation in the altitude angle of the sun
during the day, as it traverses from the eastern to the western
horizon. During times of sunrise and sunset, the altitude angle
of the sun is 0°, indicating that the sun is positioned parallel to
the horizon. The sun is at its peak point during the noon hour,
L
P
N
Oh
h
Sun rays
AB
CD
Sun’s center
Equatorial plane
Zenith Angle
Azimuth
N
0
W
270
S
180
E
90
W
270
N
0
S
180
Sun
Elevation
Azimuth
Nor
th
E
90
δ
Figure 4. (a) Hour angles and solar declination, (b) azimuth angle, (c) zenith angle, (d) elevation with the position of the observer.
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Automatic solar tracking system | 243
Table 2. Comparison between previously published review articles on different solar tracking technologies.
Title Methodology Type of trackers Key performance
indices
Gaps/recommendations References
Solar tracking
systems:
technologies and
trackers drive
types—a review
Investigation of
the feasibility of
solar tracking
devices using
multiple axes
and geographical
locations around
the world.
Sequential solar
tracking, active
solar tracking,
semi-passive solar
tracking, passive
solar tracking, and
manual tracking
are the different
types of tracking.
• Horizontal
tracking is used by
~16.67%.
• Azimuth tracking
by 10%, altitude
tracking by
16.67%, and polar
solar tracking by
4.44%.
• The primary
solar tracker has
a substantial
utilization in
the active solar
tracking type by
76.42%
• A chronological
solar tracker
has the second-
highest inuence
by 7.55%.
• Lack of a comparative analysis between
single-axis and dual-axis STS in terms
of their efciency, cost, and practicality.
• The specic needs of different regions
and the inuence of local climate and
sun movement patterns on tracking
system choice could be valuable
research avenues.
[41]
Recent
advancements
and challenges
in solar tracking
systems (STS): a
review
The comparison
between the
energy exchange
between one-axis
and two-axis
solar trackers,
costs, and
availability is
revealed.
23 different solar
technologies have
been compared
based on system
description,
performances,
and energy gain.
• When compared
to xed solar
collector systems,
the electricity
return for one axis
usually hits 25%
and for two axes,
it usually goes
beyond 40%.
• In regard to energy
return, double-
axis monitoring
systems are head
and shoulders
above the
competition.
• A concise discussion of the impact
of protability within the edible oil
sector on the functioning of biodiesel
production capacity.
• One potential constraint is the absence
of an in-depth economic analysis,
encompassing comprehensive cost‒
benet evaluations, that could offer a
more elucidating understanding of the
economic obstacles associated with
biodiesel production.
[42]
Deep learning
techniques for
photovoltaic
solar tracking
systems: a
systematic
literature review
Predicting optimal
angles, adapting
to weather
changes, and
improving
the control
algorithms for
better efciency.
Adaptive and
intelligent
trackers, hybrid
trackers, dual-axis
trackers, single-
axis trackers.
• This review
found that many
researchers
frequently omit
preprocessing
techniques from
their models,
potentially
limiting the
effectiveness of
those models.
• Additionally,
those who have
attempted any
preprocessing
have primarily
used the min–
max scaling
normalization of
data technique.
• It does not include an in-depth analysis
of the energy efciency aspects of deep
learning-based tracking systems.
• Further investigation is required to
comprehend and enhance the energy
utilization of these systems.
[43]
Solar
photovoltaic
tracking systems
for electricity
generation: a
review
This review
study looks
at the various
algorithms and
approaches for
solar tracking
that have greater
power generation
efciency
and improved
accuracy.
Hybrid PV systems
include tracker
systems, one-axis
and two-axis
systems with CPV
mirrors and PV/T
systems.
• According to this
review paper,
when used in
conjunction with
the proper control
systems, single-
and dual-axis
solar trackers can
boost electrical
output by
22%–56%.
• The research emphasizes the
signicance of control systems in
optimizing STS. It mentions the
prevalence of microprocessor- and
sensor-based control systems and their
efciency.
• Research could further explore the
development of advanced control
methods that minimize energy
consumption and improve tracking
accuracy.
[44]
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244 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
creating the day’s greatest height angle. The geographic coordin-
ates of the observer and the data affect this value [35, 36].
1.2 Previous similar works on automatic STS
On the basis of the ndings of some studies, a considerable por-
tion of the literature has been devoted to optimizing monitoring
algorithms and technologies while neglecting to adequately con-
sider other crucial efciency-inuencing factors. These factors
include but are not limited to solar radiation principles, tempera-
ture, auxiliary equipment, and the processes employed for power
storage and transportation, among others [37]. Compared with
open-loop systems, closed-loop systems have been observed to
exhibit superior electrical efcacy on average. The tracking mode
control systems and the technology used to design PV systems
substantially inuence the overall system efciency and cost.
Numerous algorithms aimed at enhancing energy efciency and
minimizing power loss have been studied and documented in the
scientic literature [38].
Compared with static PV systems, single- and dual-axis PV
tracking systems have the potential to increase electrical output
by 22%–56% when utilized in conjunction with appropriate control
systems. The most prevalent and efcient control strategy com-
bines sensor-based and microprocessor-based control systems.
Consequently, it is critical to optimize the energy usage of elec-
trical devices by reducing the motor’s revolution frequency [39].
Active solar trackers outperform alternative trackers, as stated
in one review article, owing to their substantial energy gain of
56% and highest panel efciency of 76%. Chronological tracking,
on the other hand, is the best choice when the tracking error is
minimized to 0.10°. Among the alternatives of stable, single and
Title Methodology Type of trackers Key performance
indices
Gaps/recommendations References
Solar tracker
transcript—a
review
A comparison of
solar tracker
data in recent
advancements
has been done.
Dual axis,
horizontal, single,
tilt, dual ARNN
architecture,
parallel
mechanism,
dual azimuth,
ARNN, horizontal,
azimuth, and tilt
tracking (single
and dual).
• 2-, 3-, or 4-point
single- or dual-
axis active solar
trackers consume
less electricity
than continuous
ones.
• Studies suggest
active tracker
with 76.42%, and
chronological with
7.55%.
• Polar tracking is
4.44%, azimuth is
10%, azimuth and
altitude is 16.67%,
and horizontal is
16.67%.
There is a lack of detailed analysis
considering factors such as cost-
effectiveness, maintenance
requirements, environmental
impact, and applicability in different
geographical locations or solar
installations.
[45]
Review of
dual axis solar
tracking and
development of
its functional
model
Here the different
dual-axis solar
tracker is
compared and
analysed on the
basis of accuracy
and energy
generation.
Dual-axis STS and
its types
• A dual-tracking
arrangement
has an average
efciency of
33%–43% during
1997–2017.
• In addition, it was
shown that active
tracking systems
are more typically
deployed for dual-
axis tracking than
passive ones.
• The research indicates that active
tracking systems prioritize accuracy
but consume generated energy, while
passive tracking systems are more
energy-conservative.
• In optimizing the energy efciency
of active dual-axis tracking systems,
future studies could focus on
enhancing energy conservation in
active systems while maintaining
accuracy.
[46]
A comprehensive
study of techno-
economic and
environmental
features of
different solar
tracking systems
for residential
photovoltaic
installations
Considering the
environmental,
nancial, and
technological
impacts of
numerous
residential PV
STS.
The tracking of the
horizontal solar
axis, the vertical-
axis trackers,
and the dual-axis
trackers.
• The most efcient
tracking method is
the dual trackers,
which increases
power output by
an average of 32%
compared to the
case where there
is no tracking.
• The most
economical
solution is the
vertical tracking
system, which
improves power
generation by an
average of 23%.
• Further exploring the environmental
implications and trade-offs of STS in
different regions, taking into account
not only emissions but also land use
and other environmental factors
should be considered.
[47]
CPV, concentrating PV; ARNN, articial recurrent neural network; PV/T, PV/thermal.
Table 2. Continued
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Automatic solar tracking system | 245
dual axes, the dual axes exhibit the highest power gain (56%) and
the smallest tracking error (0.11°). As a result, we recommend ac-
tive dual-axis solar followers in general because of their optimal
performance in terms of energy gain and monitoring error [40].
Table 2 presents the recent reviews performed in recent years
and, on the basis of this recent research, some of the outcomes,
which can be considered gaps or recommendations.
On the basis of previously published research articles in similar
areas, the critical unaddressed areas related to similar studies are
as follows.
• Technoeconomic analysis based on location is lacking for
STS across different geographic locations, which limits the
understanding of their efciency in various climates.
• Comparative analyses of single-axis and dual-axis STS in
terms of their efciency, cost, and practicality are lacking.
Research on the specic needs of different regions and the
inuence of local climate and sun movement patterns on
tracking system choices is needed.
• An in-depth economic analysis, including comprehensive
cost‒benet evaluations, to better understand the eco-
nomic obstacles associated with biodiesel production is
lacking. Frequent omission of preprocessing techniques
from models by researchers limits the effectiveness of
those models.
• The use of preprocessing techniques, primarily min–max
scaling normalization of data, is limited, and an in-depth
analysis of the energy efciency aspects of deep learning-
based tracking systems is lacking. Further investigations
are needed to comprehend and enhance the energy utiliza-
tion of these systems.
• Further research on advanced control methods that min-
imize energy consumption and improve tracking accuracy
in STS is needed. A detailed analysis considering factors
such as cost-effectiveness, maintenance requirements,
environmental impact, and applicability in different geo-
graphical locations or solar installations is lacking.
• The energy efciency of active dual-axis tracking systems
needs to be optimized while maintaining accuracy. Future
studies could focus on enhancing energy conservation in
active systems. There is a need for further exploration of
the environmental implications and trade-offs of STS in
different regions while considering emissions, land use,
and other environmental factors.
In this study, all the technologies related to the STS are now
highlighted with classications on the basis of the number of
axes, the activity of the tracking unit, the control strategies, and
the tracking strategies. This literature review will help readers
determine the current advancements in STS and their param-
eter variations. This literature review provides a trace of the path
of the sun and reveals how solar insolation changes with time.
The solar insolation data can be taken for any latitude and lon-
gitude. This literature review compared data based on different
criteria, i.e. the axis of rotation, tracking method, accuracy, en-
ergy efciency, space requirement, cost, applicability, weather,
wind tolerance, and installation exibility. This study examines
several tracking methodologies employed in different geographic
regions. This observation underscores the prevalence of active
solar trackers and underscores the importance of conducting
comparative evaluations between single-axis and dual-axis sys-
tems, taking into account factors such as efciency and cost.
Additionally, a study on the special demands of different regions,
which are determined by climate conditions and patterns of solar
movement, is proposed.
1.3 Tracing of the sun’s path to develop an
automatic STS
Figure 5 shows the solar insolation in kilowatts per square
metre (kW/m2) per month in the northern region of India. The
graph shows how solar insolation varies over the 12 months of
the year. STS have the potential to increase the efciency and
output of solar applications. The principal objective of this re-
search endeavour is to ascertain the viability of STS that incorp-
orate multiple-axis systems and geographic locations [48]. The
cost increase associated with increasing power output counter-
balances the benet gained from single-axis tracking compared
with dual-axis tracking, rendering the distinction between the
two relatively insignicant [49].
In regard to increasing the efciency of an automatic solar
tracker, one of the most important aspects to consider is the
length of the sunny day as well as the amount of solar insola-
tion (as shown in Fig. 6). The gure shows how the solar insola-
tion changes as the sun travels across the sky. A STS is designed
to ensure that solar panels and other equipment continue to be
oriented in a direction that is directly toward the sun [50]. The
length of a solar day not only changes depending on the season
but also changes depending on where an observer is located on
the surface of the Earth. Using a method that considers these
uctuations and calculates the location of the sun at various
times throughout the day and year, it is possible to compute the
day that the sun is visible to the Earth for a STS [51].
To create a solar heatmap via VEDAS, as shown in Fig. 7, a 3D
model of the site was generated via VEDAS modelling tools. The
software then uses data on the site’s latitude, longitude, and alti-
tude to calculate the path of the sun over different value times
per day and year. Using this information, VEDAS calculates the
shading caused by surrounding buildings, trees, and other objects,
as well as the shading caused by the building itself. The model
includes information about the height and location of buildings,
trees, and other objects that could cast shadows; by using this
method, a solar heatmap for different latitudes and longitudes
for the shadow analysis of any location can be obtained [52, 53].
2. History of automatic solar trackers
Since the early 20th century, scientists and innovators rst real-
ized the potential advantages of using solar energy in auto-
mated sun-tracking systems. Shuman created one of the earliest
known examples of a sun-tracking system in 1912, as given in
Table 3. Using mirrors to focus sunlight onto a boiler, which pro-
duces steam to power a pump, he created a solar-powered irri-
gation system. In the 1950s, researchers began to develop more
sophisticated STS that use electronic sensors to follow the path
of the sun. After several studies were performed by researchers
in this area, a mechanically operated solar tracker was designed
by Finster [60], and then, in 1963, A. Saavedra introduced an up-
graded model that could track the sun’s location via a rotating
pyro heliometer. The rst commercial solar tracker was intro-
duced in the 1970s, and these systems were primarily used in
the aerospace industry to power satellites. During the 1980s and
1990s, the development of new technologies, such as micropro-
cessors and electronic control systems, made it possible to de-
sign STS that were more efcient and reliable. This led to the
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246 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
widespread adoption of solar trackers in commercial and residen-
tial solar energy markets. Today, automatic STS are being used
in a variety of applications, from large-scale solar power plants
to residential solar installations. To adjust the position of solar
panels throughout the day, these systems use a combination of
sensors, motors, and control systems, increasing the amount of
sunlight received and maximizing the overall energy output [61].
3. Classication of the STS and its
comparative analysis based on different
parameters
Based on the number of axes, the STS is classied into two types:
single-axis trackers and dual-axis trackers. Here, the single-
axis trackers are further divided into four parts, i.e. horizontal
single-axis trackers (HSATs), vertical single-axis trackers (VSATs),
0
JanFeb Mar Apr MayJun JulAug Sep Oct NovDec
95
106
156
185 181
194
183 189
166
130
99
85
72 76
112
155
130
97
84
95
113
94
81
71
Min.
Max.
Ava.
20
40
60
80
100
Solar Isolation (kW/m2)
120
140
160
180
200
Figure 5. Annual solar insolation in kilowatts per square metre (kW/m2) for the northern region of India.
0
100
200
300
400
Monthly Solar Insolation (2009 -2024)(kWh/m2)
500
600
700
800
Dec Nov Oct Sep AugJul JunMay Apr Mar Fe
bJ
an
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Years
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Figure 6. Monthly solar isolation (in kW/m2) throughout the year from 2009 to 2024.
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Automatic solar tracking system | 247
polar-aligned single-axis trackers, and tilted single-axis trackers.
The dual-axis trackers can be further divided into two types [62]:
tip-tilt dual-axis trackers (TTDATs) and azimuth-altitude dual-
axis trackers (AADATs), as shown in Fig. 8.
There are two types of STS based on the number of axes:
single-axis trackers and dual-axis trackers:
3.1 Single-axis trackers
A single-axis tracker is a form of solar tracker that follows the
movement of the sun along a single axis. Depending on the de-
sign, the axis of rotation usually aligns with the north‒south or
east‒west axis. Single-axis trackers are a common component of
solar panel tracking systems and are commonly used in utility-
scale solar projects to increase the quantity of energy generated
by solar panels [63]. By monitoring the sun’s movement, solar
panels can maintain a perpendicular angle with the sun’s rays,
maximizing the energy captured. Depending on the design and
location, single-axis solar trackers can maximize the generation
of energy by up to 25% compared with xed-tilt solar systems.
Nevertheless, single-axis trackers are typically more costly to in-
stall and maintain than xed-tilt systems are; thus, the economic
viability of trackers depends on the specic project and location.
A single-axis tracker simply refers to the fact that it has a single
rotational axis [64].
3.1.1 Horizontal single-axis trackers
An HSAT (Fig. 9a) rotates to track the east‒west path of the sun.
Since the rotation axis matches the east‒west axis, the solar
panels tilt east‒west as the sun moves. Utility-scale solar projects
use HSATs because they can increase energy production by 25%
over that of xed-tilt systems [65]. By monitoring the sun, solar
panels can maximize energy collection while facing perpendicu-
larly. HSATs use less acreage than xed-tilt devices do. The panels
can be closer together because they do not cast shadows on each
other during the path of the sun. Owing to their simplicity, HSATs
require less maintenance than other STS do [66].
3.1.2 Vertical single-axis trackers
A VSAT (Fig. 9b) enables solar panels to rotate on a vertical axis
while tracking the path of the sun from east to west. Typically, this
Jan
0
5
10
15
20
25
Temperature (°C)
Avg. Min. Avg. Max.
30
35
40
45
50
Feb Mar Apr MayJun JulAug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Min.
Max
22
24
29
34
38 37
33 32 32 31
27
24
9
11
15
19
24
26 25 25
23
18
13
9
Figure 7. Average minimum and maximum temperatures in degree Celsius per month via Visualisation of Earth Observation Data and Archival
System (VEDAS).
Table 3. History and evolution of the STS annually.
Timeline Research nding References
1912 Shuman developed a solar-powered irrigation system that used mirrors to concentrate
sunlight onto a boiler, which produced steam to power a pump.
[54]
1950 Researchers began to frame the STS that used electronic sensors to follow the movement
of the sun.
[55]
1962 Finster developed the solar tracker which was completely mechanical and not a very
efcient system.
[19]
1970 The rst commercial STS were introduced, primarily for use in the aerospace industry to
power satellites.
[56]
1975 The sun tracker, created by Raymond H. McFee, is quite accurate, with an inaccuracy of
only half a degree to one degree, thanks to the contributions of many individual mirrors.
[57 ]
1980 The rst commercially available STS with a limiting position and excess heat switch was
created by Dorian and Nelson using an electrically operated mechanism.
[58]
1980–90 New technologies, such as microprocessors and electronic control systems, made STS
more efcient and dependable.
[59]
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248 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
form of tracker is made up of several vertically positioned poles
or columns that each support a horizontal beam or arm that
holds the solar panel array [67, 68]. The involvement of a motor
in the vertical single-axis tracking system facilitates the rotation
of the array along the vertical axis of the sun, thereby ensuring
that the panel remains perpendicular (90°) to the rays of the sun
over the course of the day. The implementation of movable solar
panels enables the panels to capture a greater amount of sun-
light, resulting in increased energy generation in comparison to
the stationary PV system. Compared with other tracking systems,
the VSAT is a solar panel tracker that boasts a comparatively un-
complicated design and is generally more cost-effective in terms
of installation and upkeep [69, 70].
3.1.3 Tilted single-axis trackers
The tilted single-axis tracker is the solar panel mounting system
that enables the rotation of the solar panels on a single axis while
being inclined at an angle to the ground, as shown in Fig. 10a.
This tracking mechanism is typically composed of a sequence
of vertical poles or columns that are securely installed into the
Earth at a predetermined inclination. Each pole is responsible for
sustaining a level, horizontal beam or arm that accommodates
the solar panel array [71]. A tilted single-axis tracking system
uses a motor to spin the array. This device helps keep panels per-
pendicular to the light all day. The permanent mounting frame-
work maximizes the angle of contact between the sunbeams and
the solar panel array, increasing the energy yield, exibility, and
adaptability, which are advantages of a tilted single-axis tracker
over a vertical tracker [72].
3.1.4 Polar-aligned single-axis trackers
The polar-aligned single-axis solar tracker (shown in Fig. 10b)
is a type of solar tracker that moves solar panels along a single
axis of rotation to follow the position of the sun throughout the
day. Unlike xed solar panels, which are stationary, polar-aligned
single-axis trackers move in a horizontal or vertical direction,
depending upon the orientation of the rotation axis [73]. Polar-
aligned single-axis STS are simpler and less expensive than dual-
axis trackers, which track the sun horizontally and vertically.
Polar-aligned single-axis tracking systems can increase energy
production by 25% over that of xed STS. A well-equipped as-
cending telescope with a tilted single axis aligns with the polar
star’s rotation axis [74, 75].
3.2 Dual-axis trackers
The dual-axis STS is designed to revolve around a stationary ver-
tical axis, while the panels are afxed to a secondary horizontal
axis that synchronizes with the primary axis rotation. This STS is
designed to trace the trajectory of the sun by rotating along two
axes, thereby enabling the solar panels to remain oriented per-
pendicular to the sun’s rays for the day [76]. The device monitors
the daily progression of the sun’s movement from east to west,
as well as its seasonal shift from east to north or south. The phe-
nomenon of moving from east to west is commonly referred to
as the zenith angle, whereas the movement from east to north or
south that occurs annually is known as the azimuth angle. The
solar tracker facilitates the attainment of optimal solar energy
by tracking the sun’s movement both vertically and horizontally.
The solar output will increase by 40%–45% [77]. They were clas-
sied by the orientation of their primary axis about the ground.
This tracker has two standard implementations—TTDAT and
AADAT—which are detailed in the following sections.
Types of Solar Tr ackers
Single Axis Solar Trackers
Horizontal
Single Axis
Tracker
Ver tical
Single Axis
Tracker
Polar Aligned
Single Axis
Tracker
Tilted Single
Axis Tracker
Tip-Tilt Dual Axis
Tracker
Azimuth-Altitude
Dual Axis Tracker
Dual Axis Solar Trackers
Figure 8. Classication of the STS on axes.
ab
Horizontal Axis Ver tical Axis
Figure 9. (a) Directional movement of the HSAT and (b) directional
movement of the vertical single-axis solar tracker.
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Automatic solar tracking system | 249
3.2.1 Tip-tilt dual-axis trackers
TTDATs are solar tracking technologies that facilitate the adjust-
ment of solar panels along two axes, enabling them to track the
trajectory of the sun throughout the day. The trackers employ a
dual-axis rotation mechanism, whereby one axis is utilized for
vertical panel tilting and the other for horizontal rotation. The
tip-tilt mechanism is employed to maintain the panel’s align-
ment with the sun throughout the day, despite the movement
of the sun across the sky. The sensors of the solar tracker can
nd the precise position of the sun, and subsequently, the con-
trol system of the tracker can make necessary adjustments to
the position of the solar panel to optimize the amount of solar
radiation it receives. Tip-tilt axis trackers have the potential to
increase the efcacy of solar panels by up to 40%, in contrast to
stationary installations [78, 79].
3.2.2 Azimuth-altitude dual-axis trackers
AADATs represent a distinct category of STS that enable the re-
positioning of solar panels along two axes. Azimuth-altitude
trackers employ a dual-axis rotation system, whereby one axis
facilitates horizontal rotation of the panel, whereas the other axis
enables vertical adjustment of its angle. The panel’s orientation
is controlled by two axes: the horizontal axis facilitates rotation
to track the movement of the sun across the sky, and the vertical
axis enables adjustment of the panel’s angle to optimize sunlight
absorption over the day [80, 81].
Figure 11 shows how the solar trackers are classied based on
two types of control strategies, i.e. open loops and closed loops,
which are based on tracking strategies, and unit tracking, which
has passive and active solar trackers [82].
3.3 Types of STS based on the activity of the
tracking unit
With respect to cost, complexity, efciency, and upkeep, every
variety of STS possesses distinct merits and demerits. Location,
available resources, energy output requirements, and the
trade-off between initial investment and long-term benets are
frequently determinants in system selection.
3.3.1 Passive solar trackers
To create a passive solar tracker, two identical cylindrical tubes
are spaced equally from the centre pivot and positioned on either
side of the solar panel. Each tube contains uid that is under par-
tial pressure. Damping the movement slows it down. This simple
setup not only is easy to build but also uses zero power from the
PV cell. However, every morning, it sets out with an erroneous
orientation, trying to change its position while avoiding the sun.
When cylinders are lled with refrigerants, choosing the right
cylinder is important. Despite these limitations, the approach
is extensively utilized [83]. The energy efciency of passive sun
trackers using holographic gratings was determined theoretic-
ally and practically. In central Russia, they improve solar panel
signals in ‘smart’ windows by 20%. A 35% signal enhancement
is possible by increasing the angular selectivity contour of the
gratings while maintaining good diffraction efciency. This can be
accomplished by creating novel materials with refractive index
modulations greater than 0.1 and recording layers approximately
3 m thick or by using well-known hybrid diffractive structures
that relieve a volume grating [84].
3.3.2 Active solar trackers
STS, known as active solar trackers, employ motors and sensors
and control electronics to rotate solar collectors or panels ac-
cording to the position of the sun in the sky. Although more
expensive and complex than passive solar trackers are, active
solar trackers can offer greater accuracy and energy output. The
tracker controller, the sensors, the actuator, and the solar panel
mount are the four essential parts of an active solar tracker. The
tracker controller uses data from sensors to determine the best
angle for the solar panel by analysing the position and intensity
of the sun. The solar panel mount is moved to the desired pos-
ition by the actuator, which is typically a motor or a linear actu-
ator [85, 86].
Active solar trackers (shown in Fig. 12) optimize the place-
ment of solar panels for optimum energy production through the
implementation of a meticulous control process. A sequence of
steps is orchestrated by sensors, actuators, and a controller to
P
olar axis
Rear side
ab
Figure 10. (a) Directional movement of the polar-aligned single-axis tracker. (b) Tilted single-axis tracker.
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250 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
complete this complex procedure. By incorporating these data in
conjunction with the panel orientation, the controller computes
the optimal panel alignment. Next, the actuators receive signals
that initiate precise movements, which in turn reposition the
panels. By consistently monitoring the position of the panels and
utilizing feedback control to rene alignment, the controller guar-
antees that the panels maintain their perpendicular to the sun’s
beams. During this dynamic adjustment process, the solar panels
produce electrical energy by taking advantage of the most favour-
able sunlight conditions. The generated energy is either directly
used to power a variety of devices or stored in batteries for subse-
quent utilization [87, 88].
A common approach is to use several motors linked to an elec-
trical sensor to rotate a PV cell at its core. Figure 13 shows that
this is probably the most basic electrical method currently avail-
able since it uses a cell to power a motor. The sun’s rays strike
the panel at a right angle when this angle reaches zero. In add-
ition, the design’s pivot point was not horizontal; rather, it had
one bearing that was lower to the ground than the other, which
allowed it to provide the correct elevation for areas beyond the
equator. Most solar trackers are electronic, which drains the
power from the PV panel for operation and adds extra expenses
for installing and maintaining the control system and electric
motor [89].
3.4 Types of STS based on control strategies
3.4.1 Closed-loop solar trackers
The feedback control approach underpins the closed-loop solar
tracker. A closed-loop tracking system control technique uses
light sensors on the solar PV panel to follow the sun at any time
of day. If the sun is not directly on the solar panel, the inten-
sities of the light sensors will vary. The tracker’s inclination to
face the sun is calculated via this difference [90]. The solar panel
has two similar light sensors to track the sun. The east‒west or
south‒north orientation helps measure light source strength.
For a wide-angle search and quick sun location, an opaque item
is placed between the two sensors to isolate light from other
orientations. Closed-loop trackers consider two states. The STS
is stable if the output signal levels of the two sensors are equal,
indicating a zero-output difference and zero motor drive voltage.
This shows that the solar PV system followed the sun [91].
3.4.2 Open-loop solar trackers
One type of STS, known as an open-loop solar tracker, operates
according to an algorithm or timetable rather than monitoring
the real-time location of the sun or any other environmental fac-
tors that can affect the efciency of PV panels. Operating on a
timetable or algorithm that considers the time of day, season, and
location, an open-loop solar tracker moves the motorized plat-
form that holds the solar panel in line with the sun’s position. To
follow the yearly course of the sun, for example, a solar panel can
be programmed to travel in an east‒west direction during the day.
Instead of actively seeking the sun, an open-loop solar tracking
control approach determines the sun’s position for a certain site.
The solar tracker uses time, day, month, and year to locate the
sun without feedback. The tracker uses a stepper motor to track
the sun without sensors. Therefore, it is called the open-loop
tracker, and Fig. 14 shows an open-loop and closed-loop tracker
schematic [92].
3.5 STS using sensors, time, and date
The initial solar tracking device had a tracking error of 0.14 when
it was a sensor-based version, but it only had a tracking error of
0.43 when it was a sensor-less version. During this effort, two
innovative STS that make use of two axes were conceived and
manufactured. Because of these ndings, these tracking errors
were far lower than those of modern solar trackers. Compared
with a PV module that was stationary, the sensor-based solar
tracker resulted in increases of approximately 27.7%, 37.3%,
Types of Solar Trackers
On the basis of Control
Strategies
Open
Loop
Closed
Loop Sensors, date
and time Based
Microprocessor
and
Microcontroller
based
Passive
Solar
Tracker
Active
Solar
Tracker
On the basis of Tracking
Strategies
On the basis of Activity of
Unit Tracking
Figure 11. Classication of solar trackers based on different strategies.
Sensor-1 Photovoltic Panel
Sensor-2
Signal Substractar
Comparator
Move ForwardMove Backward
Figure 12. Control process of an active solar tracker using the
comparator and signal subtracter.
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Automatic solar tracking system | 251
and 42.7% in the average daily obtained solar energy during the
winter, spring, autumn, and summer seasons, respectively [93].
3.6 Key advancements, performance analysis,
and key ndings in the different solar tracking
technologies
This study describes the integration of a sun tracker into a solar
water heating system to increase thermal efciency. The tran-
sient thermal dynamics of the solar system were studied. This
research model can be easily adapted to any solar panel orien-
tation. The model is suitable if the theoretical and experimental
results match. This study examined direct and diffuse solar ow
as a function of the sun position to estimate solar thermal system
operation. This approach optimizes thermal energy use from
solar radiation by dynamically altering the solar panel orienta-
tion and inclination to track the movement of the sun [94].
Photovoltic Panel
Signal Processing
Unit
Control
Signal
Control System
(PLC)
Power Supply
Relay Unit
M
Sensor
Solar Tracker
Figure 13. Generic block diagram of the active solar tracker using the programmable logic controller (PLC) and the signal processing unit.
Monitoring A
Personal
Computer
Microprocessor
Written Algorithms
Motors/
Actuators
Mechanical
system
Output
Power
Sun Position
Sensors
Solar Panel
Figure 14. Basic solar tracker block diagram for closed-loop systems.
Table 4. Parameter comparison between the single-axis and dual-axis tracking systems.
Criteria Single-axis tracking Dual-axis tracking References
Cost Range from $0.08 to $0.20 per watt for
utility-scale projects
Generally, more expensive due to their increased
complexity. Costs can range from $0.18 to $0.30+ per watt
for utility-scale installations.
[96]
Efciency Increase energy production by
approximately 20%–30% compared to
xed panels
5%–15% compared to single-axis systems [97, 98]
Tracking capability Limited to one direction Tracks both azimuth and elevation
Ideal application Small-scale projects with limited space Large-scale projects with ample space [99–101]
Energy output 20%–25% more energy compared to xed
solar panels
35%–40% more energy compared to xed solar panels
Tracking method Tracking based on time or light intensity Tracking based on a combination of astronomical data and
light intensity
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252 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
The theoretical ux values obtained from both the solar
tracker and non-tracker congurations exhibit a high degree of
concordance with those derived from the experimental setup.
The thermal gain resulting from the use of solar trackers has
been assessed in comparison with that of xed solar panels posi-
tioned at varying angles of inclination. The experimental ndings
are highly consistent with the theoretical model. The analysis of
the theoretical and experimental uxes demonstrated a favour-
able alignment of the sun’s trajectory with the solar tracker. The
present study conducted an experimental comparison between
the outcomes obtained for solar panels with xed inclinations
and those obtained with a solar tracker. The results indicate a
signicant increase of 40% in the overall thermal energy pro-
duced. The amount of energy acquired is contingent upon the
Table 5. Parameter comparison between the TTDAT and AADAT systems.
Criteria TTDAT AADAT References
Tracking method Two-axis rotation Two-axis rotation [105–108]
Axis of rotation Tilt and pan Azimuth and elevation
Control mechanism Feedback loop and sensors Feedback loop and sensors
Accuracy 0.2 horizontal
rotating angle: 180°
High as compared to tip-tilted
Energy efciency 16%–24% when the axis is oriented
south‒north
24%–30% when the axis is oriented south–north
Space requirement Small as compared to xed tracker Large as compared to xed tracker
Cost Low to moderate as compared to xed trackers High as compared to tilted trackers
Maintenance Simple as compared to another tracking system Complex in maintenance
Applicability Small and medium systems Large systems and utility scale
Table 6. Parameter comparison between the HSAT, VSAT, tilted single-axis tracker, and polar-aligned single-axis tracker.
Criteria HSAT VSAT Tilted single-axis tracker Polar-aligned single-axis
tracker
Reference
Axis of
rotation
Rotates around a
horizontal axis
aligned with
the north‒
south axis
Rotates around a
vertical axis aligned
with the east‒west
axis
Rotates around a tilted axis
aligned with the north‒
south axis and oriented
at an angle equal to the
latitude of the location
Rotates around a polar
axis aligned with the
Earth’s rotational axis
[109]
Tracking
method
Follows the sun’s
daily path
from east to
west
Follows the sun’s
seasonal path from
low on the horizon in
winter to high on the
horizon in summer
Follows both the sun’s
daily and seasonal paths
by tilting the axis of
rotation
Follows both the sun’s
daily and seasonal
paths by aligning the
axis of rotation with the
Earth’s rotational axis
Applicability Utility scale Small and medium
systems
Small and medium
systems
Small and medium
systems
Axis of rotation (Longitudinal α)
θ
θT
Axis of Rotation (Transversal β
)
Axis of Rotation (Vertical γ)
Sun
Figure 15. Rotation angles of the single-axis tracking system.
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Automatic solar tracking system | 253
prevailing season. During summer, low inclinations remain ad-
vantageous, whereas during winter, higher inclinations are ne-
cessary [95].
A thorough examination of the distinctions between single-
axis and dual-axis STS reveals signicant variations in tracking
capabilities, cost, energy output, ideal applications, and tracking
Table 7. Comparative analysis of the performance of different STS.
Type of technology
in the system
Methodology description Performance, energy gain, and
efciency
Key ndings References
Fixed- and
double-axis STS
Initially, PV systems were of a
xed nature; however, later on,
they were regulated to follow
the movement of the sun along
two axes by making use of solar
altitude and azimuth angles.
• The PV system with a xed
tilt generates 11.53 MWh of
electricity.
• The PV system mounted on
a double-axis sun tracker
generates 15.98 MWh.
• According to the calculations,
the double-axis sun-tracking
system generates 30.79% more
electricity than the latitude-tilt
xed PV system does.
• This difference can be seen
when comparing the two
systems.
[116]
Single-axis
scheduled STS
This research endeavour is being
undertaken to assess the
efciency of a solar system
that is stationary, an LDR photo
sensor, and a solitary-axis
solar tracking mechanism that
operates on a programmed
schedule under a variety of
climatic circumstances.
• The tracker utilized 0.557 Wh
of energy during the 5-day
experiment, and astronomical
estimates put its efciency at
5.7% when the mechanism that
spun the sensor was considered.
• On days with cloudy and rainy
weather, the planned ST was
4.2% more effective than the
LDR ST, but only 1.15% on days
with variable cloud cover.
• In diverse weather conditions,
the schedule-based STS is 4.2%
more efcient than the LDR
STS. The proposed tracker was
5.7% more efcient than a xed
PV panel tilted to its ideal angle.
• The use of an encoder has
resulted in the creation of
a method that is capable of
accurately determining the
azimuth angle of the Sun.
[117]
Single-axis
multiple-position
V-trough tracker
PV multiple-position V-trough
tracker with reduced reections
and an INSA are theoretically
examined for their performance.
When compared to
nonconcentrating solar panels
of a similar type, concentrating
solar panels showed a
maximum power point increase
of 62%.
• V-trough concentrators are ideal
for concentrating sunlight on
commercially available solar
cells because they are much
easier to manufacture than
compound concentrators
(CPCs).
• They have more uniform solar
irradiation at their bases, and
they are better equipped to
disperse excess heat through
their sidewalls.
[118]
Bifacial xed-
tilt single-axis
tracking system
• It is possible to model the energy
yield of a xed-tilt bifacial
system as a function of the
placement height, the number of
rows and modules in each row, or
all of these factors together.
• The data that were measured
from a PV system that had
constantly shifting tilt angles
and the data that were simulated
were compared.
In most cases, the GCR for HSAT
systems is lower than 35%, but
the GCR for xed systems is
often more than 50%.
When comparing monofacial
and bifacial tracking gains
for a given GCR, the tracking
gain for monofacial systems is
somewhat higher than that of
bifacial systems.
[119]
One-axis three-
position polar-
axis-aligned sun
tracking
This research proposes and
conceptually investigates a
new design concept for PV
applications that is dubbed
one-axis three-position sun-
tracking polar-axis-aligned CPCs
(3P-CPCs).
The yearly solar gain that was
captured by 1P-CPCs was
approximately 65%–74% of
that which was gathered by
xed EW-aligned CPCs, while
the annual solar gain that
was obtained by 3P-CPCs was
approximately 26%–45% greater.
• The polar-axis single-axis
sun-tracking techniques were
oriented in the polar-axis
direction for effective beam
radiation collection practically
all day long.
[120]
Dual-axis PV
tracking system
• In this paper, both the design of
a dual-axis PV tracking system
and the results of experimental
testing are discussed.
• The output and presentation
aspects of the tracking system
are handled separately by their
respective mechanical and
electrical components.
• According to the ndings of this
investigation, the performance
of the dual-axis PV tracking
system in comparison to that
of the stationary systems was
superior by more than 27%.
• In regard to solar modules
following the course of the sun,
the dual-axis tracking system
design that is suggested in
conjunction with an open-loop
control system of electric drives
gives outstanding results.
The dual-axis tracking gadget
incorporates both mechanical
and electronic parts into its
construction. The electric
circuit of the dual-axis tracking
system does a comparison of
the resistances of two resistors
that depend on the amount of
light. (LDR).
[119]
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254 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
Type of technology
in the system
Methodology description Performance, energy gain, and
efciency
Key ndings References
Azimuth- and
sensor-based
control strategies
for a PV solar
tracking
application
• Within the scope of this research,
a single-axis STS is put into
operation, and an azimuth
control strategy is developed to
improve tracking of the sun.
• Real-time calculations of the ideal
azimuth angle can be performed
by an embedded microprocessor,
which takes into account the
altitude, date, and time.
Based on the ndings, it was
determined that the sensor-
based STS created 14.8% more
net power compared to the
azimuth-based STS, whereas
the latter generated 7.8%
greater power overall.
On the other hand, the STS that
relied on sensors consumed
192% less power than the latter.
The energy consumption of the
STS that was based on sensors
was 65% lower than that of the
STS that was based on azimuth,
which was 150% higher.
[121]
Filtered sun
sensor for solar
tracking in HCPV
and CSP systems
Infrared and linear polarizing
optical lters will be incorporated
into a four-quadrant photodiode
solar sensor to demonstrate the
benets of doing so. The goal of
this effort is to demonstrate such
benets.
• Both indoor and outdoor
tracking studies make use of
the algorithms found in STs.
• These include the PI and PID
controllers, as well as a cascade
control rule that was recently
proposed.
The value of diffuse radiation is
rather low when there is no
cloud cover, accounting for
approximately 7.5% of the total
solar radiation.
This value in the solar sensor
results in low measurement
noise levels as compared to
other values.
[122]
Microcontroller-
based single-axis
PV tracker system
on solar panel
performance
A solar panel was used in the
construction of the system. In
addition, two LDR sensors were
linked to the north and south
sides of the PV, and a servo motor
was connected to the Uno board.
The objective of SASTS is to get
the most accurate readings
possible from the solar panel
while the weather is clear and
sunny. The precision of this
tracking system is 0.85 W/m2,
which is rather impressive.
• As a result of the xed solar
panel housing and the high
deection angle, the MPP was
signicantly less than what was
predicted by SASTS.
• The mechanism known as
SASTS lends a hand in ensuring
that the solar panel remains
oriented toward the sun and
makes full use of the consistent
incoming rays, which is the
intended result.
[123]
ST system for
solar panels that
makes use of the
Proteus ISIS 7.6
software
• Proteus 7.6 ISIS was put to use to
synchronize an independent STS,
and it was successful in doing so.
A STS, utilizing a microcontroller
and a low-cost solar sensor, has
been developed and simulated.
The outcomes of the simulation
have been remarkably
signicant.
The greatest current draw from
the sensor is less than 0.5 mA,
which demonstrates how little
power the sensor consumes
while functioning as it is
designed.
[124]
Two-axis STS
using at-mirror
reectors
This study investigated the voltage,
electric current, power, and
efciency of a STS equipped with
two- and four-sided reectors
positioned at angles of 90°, 120°,
and 150° relative to the solar
panel.
At a 90° angle, the four-sided at
mirrors were more effective at
blocking some sun rays than
the two-sided ones; however,
at a 150° angle, the rays could
not be reected to the panel.
Because of this, two-sided at
mirrors were preferred to four-
sided ones.
The fact that the four-sided at
mirrors had an additional two
at mirrors that blocked some of
the sun’s rays gave the reectors
with two at mirrors on each
side an advantage when viewed
from an angle of 90°.
[125]
Three-axis STS In the proposed approach, both the
manufacturing and installation
of a solar panel mount that is
outtted with a solar tracking
controller that has multiple axes
are detailed.
• According to this study, the
three-axis ST has a high
efciency as compared with the
xed-axis STS.
• In comparison, the efciency of
the STS with a xed axis is just
18%, while the STS with three
axes achieves 24.9%.
The concept of the suggested
model can be put into action by
connecting to the national grid,
which can provide exceptional
assistance at a time when it is
most needed.
[126]
A multistage
hybrid deep
learning model
for enhanced
solar tracking
Through the combination of
normalization techniques
and the transformation of
numerical data into pictures, the
suggested model enhances the
representation of features in the
data.
On a freely accessible dataset,
the suggested hybrid model
performs better than current
approaches, obtaining
exceptional results with MAE,
MAPE, and RMSE scores of
0.0073, 1.4635, and 0.0097,
respectively.
• Approximately 25% of the data
acquired over a period of 3
years, or 272 days, were used to
train the model.
• This could restrict how
broadly applicable the model
is. Therefore, for better sun
tracking, future research should
look at training the model on a
larger dataset and examining
the integration of image and
tabular data.
[127]
CPC, compound parabolic concentrator; CSP, concentrated solar power; EW, east–west; GCR, ground coverage ratio; HCPV, high-concentration PV; INSA, inclination
north‒south axis; LDR, light-dependent resistor; MAE, mean absolute error; MAPE, mean absolute percentage error; MPP, maximum power point; PI, proportional–
integral; PID, proportional–integral–derivative; RMSE, root mean square error; SASTS, single-axis solar tracking system; ST, solar tracker.
Table 7. Continued
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Automatic solar tracking system | 255
methods, as shown in Table 4. Compared with xed panels, single-
axis tracking systems, which primarily track in one direction and
cost between $0.08 and $0.20 per watt for utility-scale initiatives,
increase energy production by 20%–30% [102]. These systems are
highly suitable for small-scale endeavours that have spatial limi-
tations. On the other hand, dual-axis tracking systems, which
are typically priced at $0.18–0.30+ per watt for utility-scale in-
stallations, are more complicated and expensive than single-axis
systems but provide greater efciency improvements of 5%–15%
[103]. By monitoring both azimuth and elevation, these panels
produce 35%–40% more energy than stationary panels do, ren-
dering them well suited for expansive, large-scale endeavours. By
utilizing a combination of astronomical data and light intensity,
their monitoring method allows them to optimize panel angles
for the day [104].
The differentiation between the AADAT and the TTDAT in
STS is delineated in the comparison in Table 5. Although both
tracking methods utilize a two-axis rotation, their axes of rota-
tion are distinct: the azimuth-altitude method is dependent on
the azimuth and elevation, whereas tip-tilt method employs
tilting and panning motions. Both control mechanisms make use
of sensors and feedback circuits. In contrast, the accuracy of the
tip-tilt system is 0.2 for a horizontal rotational angle over a 180°
range. In contrast, the azimuth-altitude system exhibits excep-
tional precision without specifying numerical values. In terms
of energy efciency, the tip-tilt sensor exhibits a moderate level
of performance in comparison to the azimuth-altitude sensor,
which provides a higher degree of efciency. Additionally, the tip-
tilt system has the benet of requiring less space, accompanied
by lower-to-moderate costs and less complicated maintenance
requirements. It is more suitable for systems of a modest to me-
dium size. In contrast, the azimuth-altitude tracker is appropriate
for utility-scale applications and larger systems despite its in-
creased cost, space requirements, and maintenance complexity.
Compared with the tip-tilt tracker, the azimuth-altitude system
demonstrates enhanced resistance to adverse weather conditions
and wind, as well as greater exibility in terms of implementa-
tion. These differentiations illustrate compromises between the
two systems: the tip-tilt system, which is more cost-effective
and compact, may be more viable for smaller-scale endeavours.
Conversely, the azimuth-altitude system offers advantages for
larger installations because of its superior efciency and adapt-
ability across various conditions.
The parameter comparisons between the horizontal single axis
tracker (HSAT), vertical single axis tracker (VSAT), tilted single-
axis tracker, and polar-aligned single-axis tracker are presented
in Table 6. Initially, the performance of a PV system was evalu-
ated in a previous study under static conditions. After that, the
PV systems were monitored, as they were managed dynamically
to follow the path of the sun along two dimensions. Assuming 28
constant tilt angles and an energy rating of 1459 kWh/kWp, the
anticipated yearly PV power output is 11.53 MWh. The double-
axis sun-tracking system may create 30.79% more solar power
than the xed-latitude tilt method. A solar tracking system that
follows the sun’s path along two axes can produce 15.07 MWh
per year at an energy rate of 19.08 kWh/kWp [110]. The xed-
tilt PV and STS on the double-axis sun tracker produce 15.98
and 11.53 MWh, respectively. Compared with a xed PV system
inclined at a given latitude, a double-axis sun-tracking system
produces 30.79% more electricity. STS employing AS95HPC back-
contact monocrystalline silicon PV module systems on a double-
axis tracking system have a yearly total energy rating of 1908
kWh/kWp. The xed PV system should increase by 2.2%, and the
double-axis monitoring system should increase by 4.4%.
Table 8. Concluding remarks and learning outcomes.
Solar tracking technology Concluding remarks and learning outcomes
Fixed- and double-axis STS Double-axis sun-tracking system generates 30.79% more electricity than the xed PV system.
Single-axis scheduled STS Schedule-based STS is 4.2% more efcient than LDR-based single-axis solar trackers in diverse weather
conditions and 5.7% more efcient than a xed PV panel tilted to its ideal angle.
Single-axis multiple-position
V-trough tracker
V-trough concentrators are easier to manufacture and better at dispersing excess heat, with a multiple-
axis tracking, maximum power point increase of 62% compared to nonconcentrating panels.
Bifacial xed-tilt single-axis
tracking system
GCR for HSAT systems is generally lower than 35%, while for xed systems, it is often more than 50%.
Monofacial systems show higher tracking gains than bifacial systems.
One-axis three-position polar-
axis-aligned sun tracking
Annual solar gain from 3P-CPCs is approximately 26%–45% greater than xed EW-CPCs.
Dual-axis PV tracking system Dual-axis PV tracking system shows over 27% better performance compared to stationary systems.
Azimuth- and sensor-based
control strategies
Sensor-based STS generated 14.8% more net power and consumed 19% less power than azimuth-based
STS.
Filtered sun sensor for solar
tracking in HCPV and CSP system
Low measurement noise levels in solar sensors with polarizing optical lters, leading to better tracking
accuracy.
Microcontroller-based single-axis
PV tracker
SASTS ensures accurate solar panel orientation with a precision of 0.85 W/m2, signicantly enhancing
MPP under clear conditions.
STS using Proteus ISIS 7.6
software
Low-power STS developed and simulated using Proteus 7.6 ISIS, demonstrating signicant energy
efciency.
Two-axis STS using at-mirror
reectors
Two-sided at mirrors at 90° angle are more effective in blocking some sun rays and reecting them to
the panel.
Three-axis STS Three-axis solar tracker achieves 24.9% efciency compared to xed-axis system, with potential for
grid integration.
Multistage hybrid deep learning
model for solar tracking
Hybrid model shows better performance on a dataset with exceptional results, though training on a
larger dataset is needed for broader applicability.
3P-CPC, three-position compound parabolic concentrator; CSP, concentrated solar power; EW-CPC, east–west compound parabolic concentrator; GCR, ground
coverage ratio; HCPV, high-concentration PV; LDR, light-dependent resistor; SASTS, single-axis solar tracking system.
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256 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
Energy Efficiency Hardware Complexity
[117]
[128]
[127]
[126]
[125]
[124]
[123]
[122]
[121]
[120]
[119]
[118]
No. of sensors Required Cost
Figure 16. Radar chart for comparative analysis of different STS on the basis of qualitative and quantitative parameters.
Table 9. Comparison of essential parameters from the different methodologies used in the STS.
Tracking strategy Energy
(MWh)
Efciency
%age
Hardware
complexity
No. of sensors
required
Cost
Fixed- and double-axis STS 11.53 26.18 1 4 0.5
Single-axis scheduled STS 15.4 23.4 1 2 0.5
Single-axis multiple-position V-trough
tracker
16.75 24.84 1.5 2 1.5
Bifacial xed-tilt single-axis tracking
system
14.12 24.23 1.5 2 1
One-axis three-position polar-axis-aligned
sun tracking
10.54 19.85 1.5 4 1.5
Dual-axis PV tracking system 19.52 27.35 2 4 2
Azimuth- and sensor-based control
strategies for a PV solar tracking
application
13.14 23.12 2 6 2
Filtered sun sensor for solar tracking in
HCPV and CSP system
17.12 24.32 2 6 2
Microcontroller-based single-axis PV
tracker system on solar panel performance
11.15 21.45 2 8 2
STS for solar panels that makes use of the
Proteus ISIS 7.6 software
12.87 22.32 1.5 6 1.5
Two-axis STS using at-mirror reectors 11.54 20.12 2 4 2
Three-axis STS 11.73 23.24 2 6 2
CSP, concentrated solar power; HCPV, high-concentration PV.
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Automatic solar tracking system | 257
The ndings of this research indicate that the sensor-based
STS outperforms the azimuth-based STS in terms of tracking ac-
curacy and energy efciency, as it tracks the sun’s rays on the
basis of sensor data rather than azimuth measurements. In con-
trast to sensor-based STS, azimuth-based STS exhibit inferior
performance due to their substantial energy consumption and
limited tracing precision, as they rely solely on the sun’s theoret-
ical location [111]. The different rotation angles of the single-axis
tracking system are shown in Fig. 15.
3.6.1 Tracking angle
The tracking angle pertains to the orientation of a solar panel or
solar collector with respect to the sun and is aimed at optimizing
the quantity of solar radiation it captures. STS employ sensors
and motors to modify the alignment of panels or collectors during
the day in response to the shifting position of the sun [112].
3.6.2 Collector azimuth
The term ‘collector azimuth’ refers to the directional orientation
of the axis of a collector. The angle between the axis of the col-
lector and the direction of the true north is expressed in degrees,
with a clockwise orientation from the north.
The inclination of a collector: The collector inclination refers to the
angular deviation between the surface of the collector and the
horizontal plane. The optimal angle of inclination of the collector
is determined by the need to capture the highest possible quan-
tity of solar radiation [113].
3.6.3 Longitudinal angle
The longitudinal angle can be dened as the angular separation
between the plane of the collector and the plane that encom-
passes the projection of the sun’s rays onto the plane of the col-
lector [114].
3.6.4 Transversal angle
The angle of intersection between the plane of the collector and
the plane that encompasses the projection of the line that is per-
pendicular to the axis of the collector onto the plane of the col-
lector is referred to as the transversal angle. The terms ‘azimuth
angle’ and ‘orientation angle’ are commonly used to refer to this
concept [115].
In Table 7, a concluding table is presented to illustrate the
learning outcomes for the different solar tracking technologies.
In Table 8, all the key ndings of this study are summarized, and
concluding remarks are given. The table provides a comprehen-
sive overview of various solar tracking technologies and their re-
spective benets on the basis of recent research ndings.
4. Results and discussion
Different solar tracking strategies for the same panel capacity have
separate energy production and tracking efciency. Table 8 shows
a comparison of the essential parameters for the different solar
tracking strategies. If dual-axis tracking is enabled in a solar panel,
it will be more efcient in enhancing the ability of the solar panel to
generate energy, since it has an efciency of 27.35% compared with
that of a xed solar panel dual-axis PV tracking system. In one-
axis three-position polar-axis-aligned sun tracking, the one-axis
three-position polar-axis-aligned sun-tracking strategy was experi-
mentally analysed and compared with the xed-axis solar tracking
strategy, which yielded a lower efciency of approximately 19.85%,
as it was positioned at only three points. Dual-axis PV tracking
system, azimuth- and sensor-based control strategies for a PV solar
tracking application, and ltered sun sensor for solar tracking in
HCPV and CSP system used dual-axis tracking by means of sensor-
based control strategies, which increase hardware complexity;
a larger number of sensors and control strategies increase hard-
ware complexity, resulting in high cost and maintenance. Figure 16
shows the radar spider 2D chart, which determines the best solar
tracking strategy for framing the STS. The datasets for the radar
plot are given in Tables 8 and 9, where Table 8 presents the true
values of the parameters to be considered for the STS and Table 9
presents their per unit values. The costa and hardware complexities
are given numeric values via calibration techniques, where 0.5 de-
notes very low cost, 1 denotes low cost, 1.5 denotes high cost, and 2
denotes very high cost, which depends on the complexity, i.e. a high
complexity results in a high cost. Similarly, a hardware complexity
of 1 denotes less complexity, 1.5 denotes medium complexity, and 2
denotes high complexity.
5. Conclusion and future scope
• Automatic STS have become more efcient because of
advancements in sensor technology, control algorithms,
and precision mechanics. These systems can optimize the
angle and orientation of solar panels to maximize sunlight
exposure throughout the day, leading to increased energy
production.
• Articial intelligence and machine learning techniques are
being integrated into automatic STS to increase their per-
formance. These technologies enable the system to ana-
lyse real-time data, predict solar movement patterns, and
optimize tracking algorithms accordingly, resulting in im-
proved accuracy and efciency.
• Traditionally, single-axis STS, which track the movement
of the sun in only one plane, are prevalent. However, dual-
axis STS have gained popularity, as they can track both
the azimuth and elevation angles of the sun. This en-
ables the panels to capture sunlight from different angles
throughout the day, further maximizing the energy output.
• Compared with xed-tilt systems, implementing auto-
matic STS can be cost intensive. The additional compo-
nents, sensors, and motors required for tracking increase
the overall system cost. However, with advancements in
technology and economies of scale, the costs are gradually
decreasing, making the systems more accessible.
• Automatic STS are made up of moving parts, which may
need to be maintained regularly to guarantee that they are
operating correctly. Mechanical wear and tear, exposure to
weather conditions, and sensor failures can impact system
reliability. Ensuring regular inspections, maintenance rou-
tines, and robust designs can mitigate these challenges.
• Automatic STS rely on accurate sun tracking, which can
be affected by environmental factors such as clouds, haze,
and shading from nearby structures or vegetation. These
factors can impact the system’s ability to track the sun ac-
curately and affect energy generation.
An automatic STS is a promising technology that has undergone
signicant advancements in recent years. It offers several advan-
tages, including increased energy efciency and improved power
generation from solar panels. This review highlights some of the
key advancements and challenges associated with automatic STS
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258 | Clean Energy, 2024, Vol. 8, No. 6
in the current scenario. An automatic STS is a promising tech-
nology that has undergone signicant advancements in recent
years. It offers several advantages, including increased energy ef-
ciency and improved power generation from solar panels. This
review highlights some of the key advancements and challenges
associated with automatic STS in the current scenario.
According to the ndings of this review presented in the com-
parative analysis in Table 7, the performance of the dual-axis PV
tracking system was superior to that of the stationary systems by
more than 27%. The system efciency was compared between the
two types. Under diverse weather conditions, the schedule-based
STS is 4.2% more efcient than the LDR solar trackers. The tracker
has 57.4% better efciency than a xed solar panel tilted to its
ideal angle. This review indicates that the double-axis sun-tracking
system generates power at a rate that is 30.79% higher than that
of the latitude-tilt xed PV system. When the two different sys-
tems are compared, this distinction becomes clear. The outcome
of this review is that V-trough concentrators are more suitable for
focusing sunlight on commercially accessible solar cells because
they are signicantly simpler to produce than CPCs. This is because
they have more uniform solar irradiation at their bases and are
better tted to remove surplus heat through the sidewalls of their
chambers. CPCs have a greater temperature threshold, which al-
lows them to concentrate sunlight more effectively than V-trough
concentrators. If we compare the tracking gains of monofacial and
bifacial systems for the same GCR, the tracking gain for monofacial
systems is somewhat greater than that of bifacial systems.
Author contributions
Paramjeet Singh Paliyal (Writing—original draft [lead]),
Surajit Mondal (Supervision [lead], Writing—review & editing
[lead]), Samar Layek (Resources [lead]), Piyush Kuchhal
(Conceptualization [equal], Validation [equal]), and Jitendra
Kumar Pandey (Methodology [equal], Supervision [equal])
Conict of interest statement
None declared.
Funding
None declared.
Data availability
No new data were generated or analysed in support of this re-
search.
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