Maximize Solar Efficiency with Smart Tracking

Discover how building your own sun tracker boosts solar panel output and saves energy costs.

Simple Mechanical Setup

A straightforward design using gears and levers to align panels with the sun’s movement throughout the day.

Microprocessor-Controlled System

Advanced tracking using sensors and microcontrollers for precise solar positioning and optimal power generation.

Energy Savings and Sustainability

Lower energy bills and reduce carbon footprint by maximizing solar capture efficiency with your DIY tracker.

How DIY Sun Trackers Work

You can purchase solar tracker kits for your home panels, or build your own inexpensive tracker by following this concept from bwithttps://c16dewk782y9xv9oudkb5do1mt.hop.clickbank.netmer on Instructables.  

For a class project, he decided to try to build a photovoltaic tracker that was both cheaper and more sturdy than the versions available for purchase.  

The concept he came up with is a panel mounted to a frame attached to two bike wheels, which are mounted to a larger frame.

The wheels and panel are moved by a 12-volt linear actuator.  

1

Step One: Gathering Materials

Begin by collecting all necessary components, from sensors and motors to microcontrollers, laying the groundwork for your tracker.

2

Step Two: Assembly & Calibration

Assemble your device carefully, then calibrate sensors to accurately detect sunlight direction and adjust panel positioning.

3

Step Three: Testing & Optimization

Perform thorough testing to ensure smooth tracking performance, making adjustments to enhance efficiency and reliability.

Build Your Own Sun Tracker

Explore step-by-step instructions and tips for creating solar panel trackers that boost energy efficiency by following the sun.

Basic Setup

Understand simple mechanical designs to get started with sun tracking for your solar panels.

Advanced Systems

Dive into microprocessor-based solutions to automate sun tracking with precision and reliability.

Materials Needed

Find out which components and tools are essential for building your own sun tracking device.

Build Your Own Sun Tracker

Discover step-by-step visuals demonstrating how to assemble efficient solar tracking devices.

Build Your Own Sun Tracker

Discover how to boost solar panel efficiency by creating a custom sun tracking device.

One of the biggest limitations of static solar panels is that they are only at maximum efficiency while the sun is shining directly on them.

If panels are able to move and track the sun, they will receive greater amounts of sunlight during the day, making them 30-50% more efficient than unmoving panels.