SMIT, a sustainable design start-up company, has developed an interesting, potentially ground breaking, and completely simple idea called GROW. Solar energy scientists have been trying to imitate photosynthesis for a while now. They’ve done an excellent job of it, and I’m continually impressed with newer techs and better availability. In this sense, GROW is not a novel idea. However, in its literal interpretation, that being solar leaves, GROW is probably one of the most thoughtful products yet.
Let me be clear when I offer my praise (I don’t want to go soft on anybody). GROW’s innovation isn’t in the photovoltaics – it’s in the leaves themselves and their hybrid capabilities. See, not only do the leaves produce solar-electric energy, but the stems have a wind powered generator inside. These hybrid generators are also small and modular, easy to hang, and quite easy to replace singularly. The flexibility and duel capability of GROW make the design.
According to SMIT’s website, the first product will be solar only. To be specific, GROW.2 is the product shown and is strictly solar. GROW.1 is still awaiting efficient and profitable production. Other standout features are the recyclable materials. While the PV material and the generator are, for now, un-recyclable, the plastics can be put back into the production process.
Via ecogeek
