What role does IoT really play in the performance of a solar plant?
The rapid digitalisation of the renewable energy sector has turned the Internet of Things (IoT) into a defining component of modern photovoltaic plants. As solar projects grow in scale and complexity, traditional monitoring and control systems are no longer sufficient. IoT bridges this gap by enabling networks of interconnected devices that gather, analyse and communicate real-time data, allowing solar plants to reach new levels of efficiency, reliability and responsiveness.
Within this context, Deeptrack by PVH represents the integration of advanced IoT technology into solar tracking systems. By combining long-range wireless communication, real-time analytics and cloud-based intelligence, Deeptrack by PVH provides operators with a complete, data-driven perspective of their plant’s performance.
LoRaWAN™: enabling long-range, reliable and secure communication
One of the most important technologies used by Deeptrack by PVH is LoRaWAN™, a low-power, long range wireless protocol designed specifically for IoT networks. Its advantage lies in its ability to transmit information over distances exceeding 5 km between the main controller (TBox) and the distributed motor controllers (DBox), even in challenging terrain.
In utility-scale solar plants, where equipment is spread across large areas, this long-range capability is essential for ensuring stable, efficient communication throughout the entire site.
Security is equally important. Since wireless signals can be intercepted, LoRaWAN™ incorporates AES 128-bit end-to-end encryption, ensuring that operational data remains fully protected throughout its journey across the network.
In addition, LoRaWAN™ enables:
Reduced installation costs
Thanks to the elimination of long cable runs across the plant.
Low energy consumption
Devices operate for years without frequent maintenance.
Simplified scalability
New devices can be added as the plant expands, without redesigning the network.
All these elements make LoRaWAN™ a natural fit for modern IoT-driven solar tracking infrastructures.
How IoT connectivity transforms solar plant performance
- Remote monitoring and full visibility
Operators access real-time data on tracker positions, alarms, production levels and component status from anywhere.
- Data-driven optimisation
Deeptrack by PVH uses data from TBox, DBox and field sensors to support smarter, more informed operational decisions.
- Predictive and corrective maintenance
Performance trends and behavioural patterns help detect issues early, minimising downtime and maintenance costs.
- Real-time weather monitoring
Weather data enables better protection strategies, tracker stow decisions and production forecasting.
- Continuous learning and performance improvement
Machine-learning tools help the system evolve and adapt to site-specific conditions such as seasonal changes, cloud patterns or wind behaviour.
These capabilities allow solar plants to operate with greater stability, higher efficiency and enhanced safety.
PVH has already deployed Deeptrack by PVH in more than 200 solar plants worldwide, demonstrating its reliability across diverse conditions and environments.
From raw data to intelligent plant optimisation: the evolution of Deeptrack by PVH
The growing volume of operational data collected across modern solar plants allows the development of advanced, cloud-based tools that turn information into actionable insights.
ProInsight: Provides real time plant monitoring, analytics dashboards, alerts, KPIs and historical data analysis.
WindSense: Predicts wind gusts and adjusts tracker stow behaviours to prevent unnecessary movements, reduce wear and improve long-term reliability.
Diffuse Control: Uses field sensors and machine learning models to optimise tracker angles under cloudy conditions, maximising production during periods of diffuse irradiance.
These tools show how IoT-based solutions go beyond simple control: they create an intelligent, adaptive ecosystem that enhances safety, durability and production efficiency.
Why IoT is essential for the future of solar tracking
As solar plants scale up globally, the ability to manage complex infrastructures becomes increasingly critical. IoT-based platforms like Deeptrack by PVH provide the foundation needed to handle:
- Largerand more complex plant layouts
- More demanding grid requirements
- Increasing variability in weather patterns
- The industry’s shift toward automation and remote operation
IoT is no longer an optional layer in solar plants; it is becoming the technological backbone enabling smarter, safer and more productive operations. Deeptrack by PVH is designed to meet this future, offering operators a comprehensive solution capable of controlling, analysing and optimising plant performance in real time.
Ready to take your solar plant to the next level?
Get in touch with PVH and learn how Deeptrack by PVH can optimise efficiency, safety and long-term reliability.