Predictive control for photovoltaic tracking optimization

This paper presents the design and implementation of a control algorithm in order to command the photovoltaic panel movement to improve the availability of solar energy and the system´s total efficiency. The designed algorithm is implemented on a solar tracking experimental platform using a model predictive control algorithm. It makes use of measured values for radiation from two appropriate sensors and assures command of the platform´s two positioning motors. The solution was developed as a virtual instrument, using a graphical programming environment. This allows for fast deployment, versatility and scalability.