Design of a Hydroelectronic Solar‐Tracking System for Solar Panels

ABSTRACT This study presents the design, simulation, and experimental evaluation of a water‐assisted passive solar‐tracking system to enhance the efficiency and durability of photovoltaic (PV) panels. Conventional solar‐tracking methods generally rely on photosensors placed along the panel edges or on algorithm‐based sensorless approaches to determine the Sun's position. These systems typically utilize stepper, AC, servo, or DC motors to adjust panel orientation. Because such motors must bear the full mechanical load of the PV structure, they are susceptible to wear, elevated energy consumption, and long‐term mechanical failures. In contrast, the system developed in this research leverages the buoyant force of water to support and facilitate the rotational movement of the solar panel. The design operates according to the solar hour angle, using an Arduino‐controlled mechanism to achieve single‐axis tracking while substantially reducing motor load and overall power demand. This approach offers a sustainable alternative, particularly for rural areas lacking stable electrical infrastructure, where small‐scale energy demand, such as irrigation or basic household electricity, can be effectively met. Theoretical analyses were performed on April 18, 2023, in Sakarya to compare the hourly power production of a 25‐W tracking panel with that of a fixed system. Environmental factors, including solar irradiance, ambient temperature, and dust accumulation, were incorporated into the mathematical model. The results demonstrated a clear performance advantage for the tracking system. Subsequently, MATLAB/Simulink modeling of the water‐level‐controlled mechanism confirmed stable dynamic behavior and showed that panel angle varies predictably with water‐level fluctuations. A physical prototype was then fabricated and tested under real outdoor conditions alongside an identical fixed panel. Field results indicated that the proposed system produced 28% more energy than the fixed panel. Overall, the system represents a low‐cost, energy‐efficient, and environmentally sustainable solution for water‐adjacent solar installations.