Design and Implementation of a Dual Axis Solar Tracker System Based on Arduino Uno for Solar Power Plants (PLTS) on Fishing Boats (Case Study: Sukajaya Lempasing, Teluk Pandan District, Pesawaran, Lampung)

Abstract

The use of electrical energy on fishing boats in Sukajaya Lempasing still relies on gasoline-fueled generators, resulting in high operational costs. Meanwhile, the potential for solar energy in the area is quite large, but the use of solar panels is still unable to capture sunlight optimally because it cannot follow changes in the sun's position. To overcome this problem, this study developed a dual-axis solar tracker system based on Arduino UNO that allows the panel to move following the direction of sunlight both horizontally and vertically. Based on the results of testing for five days, the system was able to produce an average voltage of 14.79 V, an average current of 3.85 A and an average power of 56.9 W according to the principle in equation 2. The total energy obtained each day reached 575.74 Wh and was able to fully charge a 12 V 35 Ah battery in approximately 7 hours in sunny conditions. The stored energy was used to power LED lights through an inverter with an average power of 12.89 W and a usage duration of 10-11 hours at night. These results prove that dual-axis solar trackers can increase the effectiveness of solar energy absorption and reduce the use of generators on fishing vessels, making them more economical and environmentally friendly.