Brooklyn, N.Y.–based design firm SMIT has created Solar Ivy, incorporating thin-film photovoltaics that mimic the form of climbing ivy. The system can use organic, amorphous silicon, or CIGS photovoltaics, which deliver up to 0.5W, 0.6W, or 4.0W per leaf, respectively. The density and layout of the leaves—which are mounted to stainless steel mesh anchored into building walls—may be adjusted to preserve building views or control heat gain and loss. • solarivy.com
