What is a photovoltaic tracker and how does it work

October 01, 2025

In recent years, the photovoltaic tracker has become one of the most effective technologies to increase the energy yield of solar systems.

This tracking system, also known as a solar tracker, allows panels to automatically orient themselves toward the sun throughout the day, capturing more solar radiation and converting it into clean energy.

But what exactly is a photovoltaic tracker? And how does it improve a system’s productivity compared to fixed structures?

In this article, we explore how it works, the different types, and the advantages of this innovative technology, with a focus on Solward’s experience.

What is a photovoltaic tracker?

A photovoltaic tracker is a mechanical device that allows solar panels to follow the movement of the sun throughout the day.

While a fixed system always remains oriented in the same direction, the tracker adjusts the tilt and orientation of the modules to optimize exposure to sunlight.

This adaptive capability increases energy production by up to +30% compared to a static system, making the investment more profitable and sustainable over time.

How does a solar tracker work?

The operating principle is relatively simple yet technologically advanced.

Solar trackers are equipped with actuators and sensors that control the tilt of the panels according to the sun’s position. There are two main types:

Single-axis photovoltaic tracker:

Moves the panels along a single axis (usually east-west). It is the most widespread due to its simplicity and excellent cost-benefit ratio.

Dual-axis photovoltaic tracker:

Allows movement on two axes (east-west and north-south), tracking the sun even more precisely, though with higher costs and maintenance.

In Solward products, the tracking system is managed by a 3D backtracking algorithm that optimizes performance by reducing shading between panel rows and improving productivity even on uneven terrain.

What are the advantages of a photovoltaic tracker?

Installing a solar tracker offers numerous advantages compared to fixed structures:

1. Higher energy production: thanks to automatic movement, the tracker captures more sunlight throughout the day, increasing yield by up to 25–30%.
2. Faster return on investment: higher productivity allows for a quicker payback period, typically between 4 and 6 years.
3. Efficiency in all conditions: trackers are wind-tunnel tested and designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, ensuring maximum reliability.
4. Optimized use of space: they generate more energy in the same area, improving profitability per hectare or per square meter.
5. Smart technology: modern trackers such as Solward’s Tracker One and Tracker Agro use wireless systems, self-powering, and remote web-based control for more efficient management.

When is it worth installing a photovoltaic tracker?

The solar tracker is particularly advantageous in the following cases:

• Medium- or large-scale ground-mounted systems
• Areas with high solar radiation throughout the year
• Agricultural or industrial companies that consume most of their energy during daylight hours
• Energy community projects aiming to maximize production for local sharing

For smaller systems or areas subject to landscape restrictions, a fixed structure such as Solward’s Sailfix may be preferable, offering simplicity and minimal maintenance.

Italian trackers: Solward quality and innovation

Among manufacturers, Italian trackers stand out for their focus on quality, sustainability, and full control of the production chain.

Solward designs and manufactures its systems in Italy, testing them in wind tunnels and subjecting them to rigorous mechanical and structural verification.

The result is products like Tracker One and Tracker Agro, which combine reliability, efficiency, and ease of installation, featuring wireless technology, self-powering, and compatibility with bifacial modules.

Frequently asked questions about photovoltaic trackers

1. How much more energy does a photovoltaic tracker produce compared to a fixed structure? On average, a solar tracking system produces up to 30% more energy than a static one.
2. How much does it cost to install a solar tracker? The cost depends on the size and type of system, but the investment is repaid in a few years thanks to the increased yield.
3. Do photovoltaic trackers require maintenance? Maintenance is minimal: periodic inspections and small scheduled mechanical checks.
4. Can I install a tracker anywhere? Yes, as long as there are no environmental or landscape restrictions limiting its movement.

The photovoltaic tracker is today one of the smartest solutions to optimize solar energy production and improve the profitability of ground-mounted systems.

With increasingly advanced technologies like those developed by Solward, the solar tracker becomes a strategic ally for those who want to combine innovation, sustainability, and performance.