Solar Ivy is the new form, and it is fast becoming a new normal, thanks to Sustainably Minded Interactive Technology (SMIT), an innovative company in New York, for their commitment to bringing this project to life. The new solar ivy uses a photovoltaic moss, which takes the shape of the traditional moss we see in the damp yard and watered areas of buildings. This moss is fast becoming a huge means of generating electricity, as it produces 0.5 watts per leaf, utilizing the core principles of Solar Photovoltaic Technology.

The debut of a solar ivy for harnessing electricity

The launching of a new electricity device capable of powering buildings was first initiated through the student-led Sustainable Campus Initiative Funds (SCIF) at the University of Utah (the U) in Salt Lake City. It was first brought about by the students as a grant to finance a project that impacts the welfare of lives around the environment. As documented by the U’s official news archive, then came a system with photovoltaic moss generating energy capable of powering a whole building. Bam! It becomes a new normal and is ready to be taken to the next level.

The research project at the U was spearheaded by Tom Melburn, an environmental studies major. His project, which was initially thought to be a grant, was awarded for roughly two-thirds of the $42,000 cost of the project, a milestone highlighted in the SCIF Annual Reports. The remaining third was then channelled to the campus community through a public announcement, as detailed in Continuum Magazine.

Photovoltaic moss: A modular energy system that works

Solar Ivy is a composition of photovoltaic moss shaped and installed in an attractive form for generating electricity that can power a building. It takes the form of an ivy growing over a building surface and is capable of offsetting the amount of energy the building buys from a utility company. This innovative application is part of a broader shift toward Building-Integrated Photovoltaics researched by national labs.

Research is still ongoing, and the decision as to which building is eligible for such installation will be determined over time. The installation of these solar panels has begun and will take full effect, projected in a few buildings. These projects often follow federal Sustainable Design Standards to ensure efficiency. Watch how this photovoltaic moss takes over in the power industry, just like this groundbreaking reverse photovoltaic, transforming night into power.

All you need to know about the installation process

Thanks to the contribution from SMIT, the new project has been mounted on the south-facing facade of the university’s Orson Spencer Hall Building. The installation process starts with a stretchable and bendable steel wire mesh on the building’s interface, which now creates a surface to stitch the solar ivy leaves.

Given its level of flexibility, the leaves can be installed in a wide range of areas with a positioning and density option. Users can also replace an individual leaf or panel in the case of damage. While it uses the sun and wind to generate renewable energy, the system uses a shade screen to reduce solar heat, an environmental benefit recognized by the EPA for reducing heat islands.

Why photovoltaic moss energy is here to stay

Solar Ivy is taking its space in the industry, with a few installations being developed at several landmark public buildings, such as the Montreal Biosphere Environment Museum and the Science World Vancouver, with which SMIT is currently in collaboration for developing an innovative new exhibition space.

Be sure to expect this new form of generating energy in popular science and technology buildings around the world, just like this innovative pavilion paint, opening a new photovoltaic era. We all hope that Solar Ivy will be as effective, and the contribution of SMIT and other students will yield huge positive results in the future. Solar Ivy is a product of the Sustainably Campus Initiative Funds (SCIF) and uses a photovoltaic moss to power buildings, offsetting amounts generated and reducing solar heat. The Office of Sustainability is behind the student-led enterprise.