Rancang Bangun Solar Tracker Otomatis Pada Pengisian Baterai Berbasis Mikrokontroler Arduino Uno

Abstract

The growing global energy demand has driven the development of environmentally friendly alternative energy sources, one of which is solar energy. Solar panels are the main devices used to convert sunlight into electrical energy. However, conventional static solar panels can only absorb solar energy optimally at certain times of the day, depending on the sun’s position. To overcome this limitation, an automatic solar tracker system based on a microcontroller was designed and developed to dynamically move the solar panel to follow the sun’s movement in real-time. This system utilizes Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) sensors placed on four sides to detect differences in sunlight intensity. Data from the sensors is processed by the microcontroller, which then controls a servo motor to adjust the panel's position toward the brightest light source. This method allows the panel to receive optimal sunlight throughout the day. The design process includes hardware development, microcontroller programming, and performance testing under real environmental conditions. Test results showed a significant increase in the electrical energy output compared to static systems. This design not only improves energy conversion efficiency but also offers an integrated solution applicable for household scale or off-grid energy applications in remote areas.