The Solar Revolution in 2024
An IEEE report reveals solar accounted for 70% of global new power capacity in 2024, with China (278 GW) and the U.S. (38 GW) setting records. Global PV capacity hit 2 TW, with China contributing 1 TW. This growth highlights the pivotal role of solar tracking mounts in driving efficiency.
Why Trackers Drive PV Efficiency
1. Maximizing Energy Yield
Trackers adjust panels to follow the sun, boosting output by 20–30% vs. fixed mounts. In China’s 278 GW new installations, a 10% efficiency gain from trackers equals tens of GW of extra power—enough for millions of homes. In the U.S., trackers help optimize land use for growing solar demand.
2. Synergy with BESS
Global BESS capacity reached 126.1 GW in 2024 (60% in China), overtaking pumped hydro in the U.S. Trackers align solar production with demand peaks, reducing BESS reliance. For example, a 100 MW tracker-equipped plant generates power more consistently, enhancing grid stability.
3. Advancing Low-Carbon Energy
Low-carbon sources (solar, wind, nuclear, hydro) provided 40% of global electricity in 2024. Trackers maximize solar output, enabling it to replace fossil fuels effectively—critical as renewables grow but haven’t yet outpaced demand.
Tracking Mounts in Key Markets
China’s 1 TW Dominance: Utility projects in Gansu use dual-axis trackers for record efficiency. -
U. S. BESS Milestone: With 25.7 GW BESS capacity, trackers support space-efficient solar in states like Texas.
Future Innovations
The report emphasizes R&D in PV and battery tech. For trackers, this means:
- AI controls to predict weather and optimize angles
- Climate-resistant designs for global deployment
- Modular systems for seamless solar-storage integration
Conclusion
As solar claims 70% of new capacity, trackers are the bridge to a reliable renewable grid. They turn solar potential into consistent power, proving efficiency is key to decarbonization.