FTC Solar presented its Construction AI platform and Pioneer tracker at Intersolar Europe 2026
The platform uses drones and AI software to monitor construction activities and compare performance with predefined benchmarks
Pioneer supports wind configurations of up to 150 mph and north-south slopes of up to 10°
US-based solar tracker manufacturer FTC Solar highlighted its Construction AI platform and 1P Pioneer single-axis tracker at Intersolar Europe 2026.
Construction AI is designed to help EPCs monitor and optimize project construction. The platform combines drone-based data collection with AI-powered software to analyze construction activities and track performance. Drones fly over the project site and capture data on ongoing construction work. This information is transferred to the software platform, which identifies the activities taking place and compares site performance against predefined benchmarks.
According to FTC Solar, EPCs can use the resulting information and video clips to track progress in real time across individual project sections or blocks. They can identify underperforming crews or activities and take corrective action. The company says this can improve productivity, shorten project turnaround times, and reduce construction errors and faults.
Alongside the digital platform, FTC Solar showcased its 1P Pioneer tracker. Its booth featured Pioneer variants for high-angle stow, high-wind conditions, terrain-following applications, and dual-row configurations.
Pioneer has been designed to simplify field installation. Its patented Python Clip eliminates the need for threaded fasteners, torque-tube dimpling, and through-bolts when attaching the rails. The tracker also uses fewer connection points and fasteners.
According to FTC Solar, Pioneer can reduce the pile count by 15% on many sites. A typical row uses 11 posts, comprising 1 drive post and 10 non-drive posts. The company says the lower pile count can reduce installation costs and limit potential rework resulting from pile refusals. The tracker supports wind-speed configurations of up to 150 mph. It has a standard tracking range of ±52°, which has an option to extend up to ±80°.
It accommodates ground coverage ratios (GCR) ranging from 25% to more than 60%. Terrain-based backtracking is available through FTC Solar’s SUNPATH software. Its standard warranty includes 5-year coverage for the drive and control systems and 10-year coverage for the structure.
FTC Solar is also featured in the TaiyangNews Market Survey on Solar Trackers 2026, which can be downloaded for free here.
