Glossary

Solar Tracker

Technology

Definition

A solar tracker is a mounting system that automatically adjusts the position of solar panels throughout the day to follow the sun’s path across the sky. By keeping panels oriented optimally toward the sun, trackers can significantly increase the energy production of a solar array compared to fixed-tilt installations. There are single-axis trackers (which typically rotate panels east-west as the sun moves) and dual-axis trackers (which also adjust the tilt angle up and down). Solar trackers are commonly used in utility-scale solar farms to maximize output and improve project economics, especially in regions with high direct sunlight. While trackers add mechanical complexity and cost, the boost in energy yield can outweigh these factors in many projects.