Abstract

Sun tracking systems are the most effective and efficient means of generating maximum photovoltaic (PV) power because the PV panel is continuously aligned to remain constantly normal to incident solar radiation throughout the day. Experimental studies were carried out using 37 Wp PV panels over a prolonged duration of one month (October, 2015) to evaluate the performance of a low cost tilted single axis tracker in comparison with a fixed tilted PV panel which is inclined at an angle equal to the latitude of Indore city (22º 43’, North latitude), Madhya Pradesh , India. Performance of the proposed single axis tracker in comparison with a tilted fixed PV panel was observed to be quite encouraging with an average energy gain of 37% under sunny and clear sky conditions. However, performance of both the systems deteriorated with decrease in duration of direct solar irradiance during cloudy and heavily overcast conditions. Cost analysis of the systems show that payback period of the tracking system is well within acceptable limits and that a tilted single axis sun tracking system is economically viable and can be used with advantage.