Design and implementation of dual-axis solar tracker simulator in southern Rwanda

Abstract

This research aims at determining the effectiveness of tracking system, which has two axes in enhancing the solar energy collection in the southern part of Rwanda. As the world becomes conscious of pollution and the usage of fossil fuels becomes deemed unsustainable, there is hope in other forms of energy such as solar energy. However, the effectiveness of solar panel depends on the fact of their capacity to follow the movement of the sun during the day. For the sake of improvement of the orientation of the solar panels, this research links a dual axis tracking technique to it. In the research, the orientation of solar geographical location of the southern part of RWANDA, the coordinates of latitude and longitude and climate. A number of simulations and empirical data collecting are provided to estimate the effectiveness of dual-axis tracking system in comparison with the fixed-mount solar panels. This study shows that great advances were made in terms of energy production and efficiency where the tracking system has been installed especially during the times of low sun position and in the fluctuations of season. In addition, economic and environmental consequences are analyzed and current economic opportunities and potential impacts of this technology on energy security and carbon neutrality goals of Rwanda are also described. To policymakers, energy planners as well as investors who intend to support renewable energy systems in Rwanda and other regions with high solar irradiation, this study holds a lot of potentials.