Overview of Solar Trackers: Historical Evolution and Integration into the Photovoltaic Market

Abstract

The shift in the global energy paradigm has driven the search for renewable sources, highlighting photovoltaic solar energy. This article presents a study on solar tracker technology, devices that allow photovoltaic modules to follow the sun's trajectory, increasing received irradiance and the capacity factor of power plants. The work provides a historical overview from the technology's emergence in 1975 to its current consolidation, as well as analyzing data on its insertion in the international and Brazilian markets. The results demonstrate that, although they have a higher initial cost, trackers provide productivity gains between 30% and 40%. In Brazil, single-axis technology dominates energy auctions, consolidating itself as a viable solution to maximize electricity generation.