Review of dual axis solar tracking and development of its functional model

Abstract The use of solar energy is in the upswing due to its environmental friendliness and abundance. That notwithstanding, efficiency remains a major problem in many of the applications. Mitigation is normally in the form of tracking systems. This paper therefore investigates dual axis solar tracking systems from two dimensions. Firstly, a review of extant literature was conducted to draw up a trajectory of where we are in the efficiency map, Therefore it was found that the current efficiency of dual axis tracking configuration is about 35-43%. Secondly, from the above review, a generic functional model of how an efficient and effective tracking system should be is presented. The two components, coevolving, shall be used to inform the design and development of an efficient solar tracker.