Solar “Sun”flower

A new concept in solar collector design could improve overall efficiency by up to 40 percent. Known as SmartFlower, the free-standing system is based on the shape and behavior of a flower, using individual panels shaped like petals to capture energy.

Several intelligent features have been incorporated to improve efficiency. First, the system automatically opens in the morning as the sun rises, then moves throughout the day to maximize the amount of solar energy absorbed. Second, the individual petals are rear-ventilated to reduce heat build-up, resulting in an increase in power output of up to 10 percent compared to traditional rooftop installations. Finally, brushes on the back of each petal clean the panels underneath each time the system opens, eliminating the accumulation of dust and debris to further boost efficiency by up to 5 percent.

SmartFlower is available as an on-grid system or with an off-grid option that includes battery storage. Depending on location, it will generate between 3400 and 6200 kilowatt hours per year – enough to power an average household. And if you move, you can take it with you!

Complete systems start at about $20,000 and are available in eight colors.