June 2026

  Urban business including commercial, manufacturing and processing plants have been quick to recognise the cost efficiencies of solar power Australia is on track for 82% renewable energy by 2030, according to the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water. This doubling of green energy’s share of the energy mix within the current decade is driven by record solar and wind investments and battery advances. Urban businesses – including manufacturers, food and beverage and primary processors, commercial buildings, transport and warehouse logistics – have been quick to realise the potential of capturing clean, low-cost energy on their rooftops. They are joining miners, energy producers, water, wastewater utilities and farmers in harnessing power from the sun to bring down the cost of energy as a major production input. To maximise the amount of solar energy captured by banks of panels, businesses, engineers, and solar farm operators are seeking the best way to actuate their panels to track the sun, thus increasing energy output by 30-40% compared to fixed systems. High-efficiency and typically less expensive alternatives to more complex actuation methods – such as geared motors and hydraulics – include pneumatic actuators, which can offer a robustly durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective option, according to current research by the international Science Direct industrial research platform. A current harsh climate case study by ScienceDirect finds pneumatic actuators ideal for rugged environments, using compressed air to maintain optimal sun-tracking angles. Key Features and Advantages: High force-to-weight ratios and high reliability with fewer failure points. Less expensive and much simpler design Cost-Efficient Operation:Lower manufacturing costs compared to conventional systems and ongoing energy savings due to low-duty cycle operation. High Reliability:Pneumatic systems, including rubber and fabric air springs types, can provide millions of cycles with minimal maintenance. Dual-Axis Capability:Used in dual-axis trackers for both altitude […]