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Finding energy sources to satisfy the world's growing demand is one of society's foremost challenges. The paper presents the design, construction and testing of a microcontroller-based, single axis solar panel tracking system, using locally available materials. The tracking system consists of two light sensors and an automated microcontroller to drive the motor and three batteries. Three parameters were considered: solar intensity, voltage and time of alignment/exposure of solar panel to solar radiation. Current and power were obtained and compared with those of a fixed axis solar panel of same specifications. The results indicated an energy surplus of about 30% from the designed tracker. The solar tracker provided a constant alignment, better orientation of the solar panel relative to the sun; and ensured production of more energy by capturing the maximum of sun rays hitting the surface of the panel from sunrise to sunset. It can be concluded that the designed solar tracking system is a sustainable energy solution, at low cost and minimum maintenance requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]