Development of a Smart Solar Energy Optimization System Using a Single Axis Tracker and Microinverters

The increasing demand for sustainable and clean energy has made solar technology an essential
alternative to fossil fuels. This study presents the development of a smart solar energy optimization
system that integrates a single-axis tracking mechanism with microinverter technology. The
project’s objective was to design a cost-effective system capable of maximizing sunlight capture,
improving energy conversion, and enabling real-time monitoring, thereby addressing
inefficiencies common in conventional fixed solar installations.
The methodology involved a combination of hardware and software development. The system
utilized one 220 W solar panel, two Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) for light sensing, one
NEMA 17 stepper motor for panel positioning, and an Arduino Uno microcontroller to coordinate
sensor input and motor control. A voltage sensor and a current sensor were included to measure
real-time energy output, while a 250 W microinverter was employed to convert the generated DC
power into AC suitable for grid or household use. Additional integration included an ESP32 Wi-
Fi module for wireless communication and the Blynk IoT platform for monitoring energy yield,
panel orientation, and system health. The design ensured autonomous operation, scalability, and
low maintenance.
Performance evaluation under varying weather conditions showed that the tracking system
generated more energy than the fixed panel setup. On sunny days, the tracker achieved an average
performance ratio of 93.33% compared to 81.25% for the fixed system, with similar improvements
under cloudy and rainy conditions. These results confirm that the integration of solar tracking and
microinverter technology provides an efficient solution for renewable energy harvesting,
supporting the transition toward a more sustainable energy future.