June 16, 2010

Solar Ivy and Trees

Solar ivy and solar trees,
Their use will expand,
Growing in our cities,
Reducing power demand.

Solar Technologies are Growing

Photovoltaic cells or solar panels are an integral part of reducing modern society's impact on the planet. However, many people shy away from them due to their unpleasing aesthetic qualities. The invention of solar trees and solar ivy is rapidly changing the public's perception.

• Solar Trees - Welsh designer Ross Lovegrove has created a beautiful solar tree streetlight that is a gorgeous blend of form and function. The cells in solar trees are able to store sufficient electricity for operation even in spite of receiving no direct sunlight for days.
• Solar Trees in Vienna - The city of Vienna has installed and tested solar trees for street lighting. Currently they are in the process of deciding whether to install more solar trees.
• Solar Ivy - SMIT GROW is a hybrid energy delivery device that provides power via the sun and wind. It draws its inspiration from ivy growing on the sides of a building.
• Solar Ivy Construction - Solar Ivy incorporates a proprietary, patent-pending combination of photovoltaic and piezoelectric technologies in one system that can adapt to different building types, programmatic demands, and regional climates.

The Huffington Post has a great video detailing solar trees.

SMIT GROW is the official website for solar ivy.