Solar power integration firm Sologic has found a new solution for absorbing and producing power: trees.
The eTree comes in the form of a life-sized tree that uses panels to absorb solar energy and provide shade for people looking for cover from the sun, according to Discovery News. The Israel-based company also added a water fountain that both humans and pets can use, as well as Wi-Fi connection for people who want to use the internet while outside.
The tree is designed to be used at parks, courtyards, schools and universities, and one tree has been installed in Israel's Ramat Hanadiv public gardens.
The project is Sologic's latest effort in bringing solar energy to commercial and residential buildings, Green Prophet reported. Designer Yoav Ben-Dov spent 18 months working on the eTree, giving it metal and glass solar panels that produce 1.4kW of power every hour. The inner parts of the station are protected from getting stolen by a concrete block.
The company reportedly plans to install more versions of the tree in other places around the world, including China and Nice.
The eTree serves as an alternative to other inventions created for energy use, such as wind turbines, power stations and solar farms, Discovery News reported.
Michael Lasry from Sologic said the eTree serves as "a social enterprise that aims to promote environmental awareness and sustainability, to create a link between the community environment."
