40 percent more efficient in energy production than traditional solar
Three years ago, an Australian firm created a sunflower-inspired solar PV system that bends to face the sun. Now, the portable, adjustable SmartFlower is available in the U.S., reports Megan Barber for Curbed.
When the sun rises in the morning, the SmartFlower automatically unfolds and begins producing energy by setting its petals at a ninety-degree angle. The flower goes “back to sleep” into a folding position at night or whenever high winds make it unsafe to operate.
It does all of this autonomously through GPS-based dual axis tracking. It also boasts a cooling and cleaning system that brushes the back of each panel every time the unit folds and unfolds. Because the SmartFlower is always at an optimal angle to the sun, it can generate 40 percent more energy production than traditional solar.
The SmartFlower is a kinetic all-in-one system, with the inverter, monitor, and batteries housed in the cabinet of the unit. This means that the solar system can be delivered, assembled, and installed in just a few hours. Even better, the SmartFlower can be installed in any open space and you can draw power off of it just by plugging in.