What Is Smart Backtracking?
Smart backtracking is an advanced algorithm used in solar tracking systems to prevent inter-row shading and maximize energy output. Unlike older, fixed-angle backtracking methods, a smart system uses real-time site data such as irradiance levels, diffuse light conditions, and ground terrain. The algorithm dynamically adjusts each tracker’s position to optimize for the most power output rather than simply avoiding shade, in order to achieve significant energy gains.
The use of smart backtracking is a crucial factor in achieving a lower Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) and maximizing the profitability of a solar asset. This technology is essential for developers, EPCs, and asset owners who need to optimize energy production, especially on challenging terrains with complex shading patterns, where efficiency would otherwise be lost.
What are the main benefits of smart backtracking?
The main benefits of smart backtracking are a direct increase in energy production and improved project economics. The algorithm’s ability to adjust to site-specific conditions prevents production losses that would occur with conventional systems. It allows for a denser site layout, increasing power density per acre and maximizing land use on projects where space is limited. The system also boosts the performance of bifacial modules by optimizing their position to capture more reflected light.
What are some key smart backtracking use cases?
Smart backtracking is particularly effective for utility-scale solar projects and agrivoltaics installations. For utility-scale sites, it allows for the profitable development of projects on challenging or undulating terrain that would be considered unviable for a fixed-tilt system or less sophisticated trackers. In agrivoltaics, smart backtracking can be used to manage the shade patterns on crops, allowing developers to optimize for both agricultural yield and energy production from a single piece of land.
How can backtracking utilize AI for solar optimization in 2025?
In 2025, artificial intelligence is moving beyond basic control to a predictive and proactive role in solar plant management. SCADA AI platforms, such as SOMA, analyze vast datasets from trackers, inverters, and environmental sensors to anticipate and prevent energy losses. For instance, machine learning models can predict the exact moment a tracker should reposition to avoid future shading, a task far too complex for manual calculation. This integration of AI makes energy optimization an automated and continuous process that leads to higher long-term asset value.
How does Solargik’s technology improve smart backtracking?
Solargik’s intelligent SCADA platform, SOMA Pro, takes smart backtracking to a new level by integrating it into a comprehensive, AI-powered system. SOMA Pro unifies data from all plant components, enabling a level of sophisticated, site-wide optimization that is not possible with third-party software. By automating decisions based on real-time data and proprietary algorithms, Solargik’s technology ensures each tracker is always in the most productive position. This solution eliminates the data silos and manual guesswork that lead to silent energy losses.
Key Takeaways
- Smart backtracking is a dynamic algorithm that increases solar project energy yield and profitability by preventing self-shading.
- This technology is crucial for optimizing projects on challenging terrains and maximizing land use on high-density sites.
- The integration of AI into smart backtracking systems creates a proactive, predictive approach to solar asset optimization.
- Solargik’s SOMA Pro SCADA system leverages AI to unify data and automate tracker control, ensuring peak performance and eliminating inefficiencies.