SMIT’s latest technological innovation, the GROW panel, trumps both conventional solar panels and wind turbines in harnessing natural energy.While its unique panels can capture the solar energy like any other solar panel we know of so far, GROW can also utilize the power of the wind to produce energy as the breeze jostles its leaf-like slender design.
Using a series of flexible solar cells as leaves, GROW takes the shape of ivy growing on a building- the leaves are solar cells while the wind that causes them to flutter is harvested as viable energy. Teresita hopes that the modular system would be readily available via the Moma store or Design Within Reach, rather than a commercially out-of-reach system like many traditional solar components. GROW also integrates an energy monitoring system for users to visualize their consumption. The leaves are made of 100% recyclable polyethylene, and are available in a variety of colors and opacities.
We love the simplicity of the idea, the natural inspiration, and the idea of bite-sized solar panels fluttering in the wind on the side of a house.
Researchers developing this technology have revealed plans to sell the GROW panels as an alternative energy source through art/design retailers hoping to reach out to the masses through its shapely appeal.
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