Perancangan Dual Axis Solar Tracker Guna Efesiensi Panel Surya di Atas Kapal

This study aims to design and test a Dual Axis Solar Tracker to improve the energy absorption efficiency of solar panels on ships. The system is designed with a two-axis movement mechanism (horizontal and vertical) using a linear actuator motor controlled by Arduino Nano and ESP32. Testing was conducted on a 20 WP solar panel in Surabaya for 30 days, divided into three methods: 10 days using an LDR sensor, 10 days using an RTC, and 10 days in static conditions without a sensor. Voltage, current, and power data were measured every 30 minutes at 07.00–17.00 WIB. The test results show that the RTC method provides the highest and most stable output power, according to the sun's movement patterns in tropical areas, while the LDR method responds quickly to changes in light intensity but is less stable in changing weather. Static installation produces the lowest power. This system is able to maintain the panel orientation perpendicular to the sun's rays, thus increasing energy efficiency compared to static systems. These findings prove that dual-axis solar tracker technology, especially with an RTC sensor, is effective in dynamic maritime environments and can be a practical solution for optimizing renewable energy on ships. The most effective results using RTC sensors demonstrated the most stable and high power output, especially since the sun in tropical areas like Surabaya moves fairly consistently following a cyclical pattern. The success of this system not only increases the energy output of solar panels but also provides a practical solution for renewable energy applications in tropical climates.