A Saskatchewan industrial contracting firm is bringing innovation to Canada’s clean energy sector by co-developing a dual-axis solar tracking system.
Founded in 1937 by C.H. Balzer, Balzer’s Canada handles large construction, fabrication, maintenance, design build and general contracting projects.
California’s Mechatron Solar has patented a gear-free, dual-axis solar tracker that maximizes efficiency across varying climates, promising up to 60% greater energy production compared to fixed tilt solar canopies.
The design of the M18KD-20 Gearless Dual-Axis Tracker structure is inspired by the exoskeleton of a beetle, combining an elliptical tube design with a lattice structure to hold panels.
The elliptical tube provides superior rigid enforcement and strength while the lattice structure transfers the structural load safely, resulting in higher structural rigidity, better panel alignment, and longer life, according to Mechatron.
Balzer’s Canada will be both making and using the trackers, according to a report from Canadian Manufacturing Magazine.
Construction is currently underway on the first solar arrays in Emerald Park, where the dual-axis trackers will power Balzer’s 23-acre facility, including fabrication shops, warehouses, and offices.
The facility’s operations are expected to reach net-zero levels by the end of the year.
“Going net zero in less than four months is no small feat,” says chief executive officer Ron Balzer.
Combining Balzer’s “long history of industrial excellence and Mechatron’s cutting edge solar technology,” the CEO believes the project sets “a new standard for sustainable contracting in Canada.”
The technology is built around Mechatron’s M18KD, which has been in development for several years as the solar innovation collects patents.
“As soon as we learned about Mechatron’s M18KD, with its unmatched accuracy, durability, and yield, we knew it was the right choice,” Balzer remarked.
“This system isn’t just about meeting net zero goals,” he continued. “It’s about leading the way for greener industrial construction across the prairies.”
Balzer’s intends to sell the dual-axis technology to industrial, commercial, and municipal projects across Canada.