Nextracker vs Hermes Robotics

About

Nextracker Inc. is a Fremont, California-based solar tracker and software company — publicly traded on the NASDAQ (NASDAQ: NXT) — providing single-axis solar tracking systems, tracker control software, and AI-powered solar performance optimization for utility-scale solar power plants worldwide through approximately 1,200 employees and a global manufacturing and services network. Nextracker designs, manufactures, and supports the mechanical tracking systems (motorized mounting structures with GPS-connected control electronics) that orient solar panels toward the sun throughout each day — improving energy yield 20-25% compared to fixed-tilt mounting systems. Founded in 2013 and spun out from Flex Ltd. (NYSE: FLEX) as an independent public company in February 2023 (one of the largest cleantech IPOs of the decade), Nextracker is the market-leading solar tracker supplier globally with approximately 50%+ market share in the US utility solar market. CEO Dan Shugar — a solar industry pioneer with 35+ years of experience — leads Nextracker's expansion beyond tracker hardware into AI-powered intelligent solar field management. In 2025, Nextracker launched a new AI and Robotics business through $40+ million in technology acquisitions: OnSight Technology (autonomous robotic inspection drones for solar panel fault detection), SenseHawk's AI drone mapping IP (aerial solar field imaging and analysis), and Amir Robotics (waterless robotic panel cleaning using dry-brush technology) — with Dr. Francesco Borrelli (UC Berkeley robotics and autonomous systems professor) appointed Chief AI and Robotics Officer to lead the integrated AI and robotics platform.