#Sweden #solar energy #Stockholm #VajaTrack #Vaja AB

VajaTrack: The Next Generation of Solar Tracking Technology

Vaja AB, based in Stockholm, has made headlines with the launch of VajaTrack—the world's first truly cost-efficient vertical solar tracker. This innovative solar tracking system promises to significantly enhance energy production for solar farms located beyond 30° latitude, which includes nearly all of Europe, much of North America, and substantial parts of Asia.

The introduction of VajaTrack coincides with a feature story in Scientific American, showcasing its advanced technology that employs a unique wind-responsive design to minimize wind loads. This feature may very well usher in a new era of cost-effective vertical solar tracking, making it feasible for regions that previously had limited options in solar technology.

A Solving a Major Challenge in Solar Technology

Existing solar trackers have largely operated on a horizontal plane that works efficiently near the equator. However, as latitudes increase beyond 30°, these horizontal trackers begin to decline in efficiency. VajaTrack emerges as a game-changer in this scenario, capturing more energy than its horizontal counterparts, specifically in the morning and late afternoon, periods when each kilowatt-hour produced is more valuable.

Henrik Eskilsson, CEO of Vaja, elaborated on this milestone: “Vertical solar tracking has proven its capability to harness more solar energy throughout the day and year. The problem has always been the exorbitant costs associated with building and maintaining these systems. VajaTrack’s innovative characteristics enable a significant reduction in costs, making this technology a viable option for broader applications across the globe.”

Technological Innovations behind VajaTrack

VajaTrack employs a variety of revolutionary features to address previous challenges associated with vertical solar tracking:

• - Passive Feathering Mechanics: This innovation drastically reduces wind load—by over 80%—compared to traditional systems, providing a more stable and durable structure.
• - Minimal Torque Design: This design prevents buildup and eliminates the aerodynamic instabilities that often compromise tracker integrity.
• - Centralized Drive System: With a single motor and gearbox controlling multiple tracker units, this feature decreases both initial costs and the burden of maintenance.
• - Shade-Avoidance Optimization: It effectively minimizes shading losses, ensuring that solar trackers beyond ±30° latitude can yield their full potential energy.

These features not only enhance the production capacity of vertical trackers but also offer a more sustainable and economically viable option for solar developers.

Invitation for Pilot Projects

To further its mission of revolutionizing solar tracking, Vaja AB is inviting solar developers to participate in pilot projects with VajaTrack. Additionally, for smaller landowners in Sweden, Vaja is offering a limited number of turnkey solutions starting with 10 available project slots slated for 2026.

As VajaTrack is rolled out, the expectations are high for its capacity to transform how solar energy is harnessed in higher latitudes, maximizing both energy output and financial returns for solar farm operators.

Vaja AB has established itself as a pioneer in the field, led by Henrik Eskilsson and Anders Olsson, both seasoned entrepreneurs with impressive backgrounds in technology and business. The company’s advancements in solar tracking are backed by investments from Node Ventures and grants from the Swedish Energy Agency.

Conclusion

As the world shifts towards renewable resources, VajaTrack stands at the forefront of solar innovation, exemplifying how new technologies can drive efficiencies and reduce costs in the quest for sustainable energy solutions. For those interested in exploring this technology further, more information can be found on Vaja’s official website.