In the ever-evolving landscape of solar energy, the challenge of installing photovoltaic (PV) systems on uneven and sloped terrains has often posed significant obstacles. Traditional solar trackers typically require extensive land grading, leading to increased costs, environmental disruption, and project delays. Addressing these challenges head-on, Nevados has unveiled its next-generation solution: the TRACE™ All Terrain Tracker®.
Revolutionizing Solar Tracking with TRACE
Building upon its market-leading All Terrain Tracker, Nevados’ TRACE system is meticulously engineered to adapt seamlessly to Earth’s diverse topographies, including slopes of up to 37%. This innovative design eliminates the need for land grading, preserving native topsoil and turning previously challenging landscapes into viable, profitable solar power sites. 
Key Features and Advantages
- Advanced Risk Mitigation:
- Bi-Directional Automatic Stow: The TRACE system offers up to 50% faster wind and hail stow by avoiding the need to pass through 0 degrees, thereby reducing exposure during extreme weather events.
- 75° Hail Stow: This feature decreases the probability of maximum loss from hail by up to 11 times compared to traditional 52° stow positions.
- Optimized Energy Production:
- Zero-Shade Backtracking: By adjusting tracker rotation schedules to account for specific terrain profiles, this feature can reduce shading effects by up to 50%, enhancing energy yield
- Diffuse Boost: Capable of increasing annual energy yields by up to 0.65%, this feature maximizes energy capture during diffuse light conditions.
- Enhanced Installation and Maintenance:
- Simplified Assembly: With a 35% reduction in part count and factory pre-kitting of components, the TRACE system is 38% faster to install than leading competitors, streamlining on-site operations.
- Maintenance-Free Design: The Kinematics ST Drive eliminates the need for greasing, reducing ongoing maintenance requirements.
Industry Recognition and Future Outlook
The TRACE All Terrain Tracker® has garnered significant industry acclaim, winning “Best in Show” in the Large-Scale category of Solar Power World’s 2024 Top Products contest. This recognition underscores its innovative approach to solar tracking on challenging terrains. 
Nevados is currently accepting orders for the TRACE system, with deliveries scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2025. Notably, the system can be ordered as a fully qualified domestic content tracker for the U.S. market, assisting solar developers in meeting requirements for additional tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. 
Conclusion
Nevados’ TRACE™ All Terrain Tracker® represents a significant advancement in solar tracking technology, offering a comprehensive solution that addresses the challenges of installing solar systems on complex terrains. By eliminating the need for land grading and enhancing energy production, TRACE paves the way for more sustainable and cost-effective solar power projects, bringing renewable energy to landscapes previously deemed unsuitable.
