Artificial trees capture energy from sun and wind

So you're not a fan of large, flat solar panels or towering windmills? SolarBotanic is working on artificial trees that use photovoltaic, thermovoltaic, and piezovoltaic technology to convert light, heat, and wind into electricity.

The Nanoleaves on SolarBotanic's trees generate power by converting a majority of the light that strikes them into electricity. They also convert thermal radiation, so heat is turned into electricity even if the sun isn't shining on the leaves. It's not just the leaves that produce electricity; the branches and twigs are wired to generate power as they sway in the wind.

Not only will the trees harness energy from the environment, they'll also have the advantages of natural trees: providing shade, dampening noise, lowering the ambient temperature, and adding a natural look to the concrete jungles we call cities. The company is planning consumer models as well, so you'll be able to set up renewable energy power "plant" (pun intended) - yes, right in your backyard.


Images from SolarBotanic