#USA #GameChange Solar #Norwalk, Connecticut #HailStow™ #VDE Americas

GameChange Solar's Genius Tracker™ HailStow™ System Validated

The solar energy sector is continually evolving, and with that comes the increasing need for innovative solutions that ensure reliability and safety. Recently, GameChange Solar (GCS) and VDE Americas collaborated on a pivotal study regarding the Genius Tracker’s™ innovative hail mitigation feature—HailStow™—which has been developed to protect solar assets from severe weather, particularly in hail-prone regions.

In July 2025, VDE Americas, a leading expert in technical advisory and risk assessment within the solar power industry, published findings affirming the operational success of GameChange Solar's hail mitigation function during a targeted study in Arkansas. The report entitled "HailStow™ Performance in April 2025" analyzed the HailStow™ feature's effectiveness in real-world conditions during a series of hail-prone storms.

Importance of Hail Mitigation

Hail storms are a significant concern for solar farm owners and insurers, with the potential to cause catastrophic damage to solar facilities. GameChange Solar, recognized as one of the top global manufacturers of solar trackers, has prioritized the development of an advanced hail mitigation system. This system not only aims to protect solar panels but also helps minimize the financial risks associated with hail-related damages.

The VDE study examined the performance of the HailStow™ system during six storms that occurred over a three-day timeframe. Importantly, the study confirmed that the HailStow™ feature executed its intended function by successfully tilting solar panels during hail warnings to deflect potentially damaging impacts. VDE noted the system's prompt processing of hail alerts and its ability to automatically reach a steep stow angle, thereby safeguarding the panels.

The Collaborative Effort

Jon Previtali, the Vice President and Senior Principal Engineer at VDE Americas, highlighted that the advancements in hail mitigation systems are crucial as hail storms have been intensifying globally. He emphasized the necessity for solar energy stakeholders to implement proven mitigation strategies such as GameChange’s Solar Genius Tracker™ HailStow™ to reduce risks related to hail damage.

Scott Van Pelt, Chief Engineer at GameChange Solar, echoed these sentiments. He stated that the successful outcome of the validation study showcases the strength of the engineering partnership between GameChange and VDE, as both organizations are dedicated to rigorous, real-world validation processes. The Genius Tracker™ HailStow™ is designed for a swift and reliable response, ensuring that solar infrastructure remains protected against harsh weather conditions.

In light of ongoing enhancements in weather alert services and hail stow system testing, both companies advocate for concrete steps to secure solar assets in increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

Background on GameChange Solar

GameChange Solar has established itself as a leading provider in the global solar tracker market, delivering over 43 GW of solar systems worldwide. The company’s commitment to quality and efficiency through advanced engineering and manufacturing processes is reflected in the design of their Solar Genius Tracker™ systems, which are engineered to optimize solar energy production while providing the flexibility needed to respond to environmental challenges.

Conclusion

The findings from VDE Americas not only validate GameChange Solar's commitment to improving resilience in the solar sector but also underscore the importance of comprehensive risk assessment in the face of changing climate conditions. As the renewable energy industry continues to expand, systems like the HailStow™ will be essential in protecting investments and ensuring sustainable energy production across diverse environments.