Development of a Low-Cost Controller for Single-Axis Horizontal Solar Tracker

Abstract

This work develops a single-axis horizontal solar tracker using the ESP32 microcontroller as a cost-effective alternative to a system that employs a PLC as the controller. The experimental analysis, conducted in a 109 kWp pilot photovoltaic plant, compared the positioning curve and power generation of the proposed system with a PLC-equipped plant and a fixed structure. The results show that, although the ESP32-based system generates approximately 5% less power compared to the PLC, it outperforms the fixed structure by up to 30%. This difference can be attributed to factors such as the different locations of the plants, variations in the cleanliness of the modules and inverter efficiencies. Furthermore, the ESP32 solution reduces controller costs by approximately 87%, while maintaining efficiency and offering advantages such as native internet and bluetooth connectivity.