It generates solar energy quietly and efficiently, looks spectacular and has been described as “an engineering marvel” – and now it’s starting to turn heads in Australia.
It’s called the SmartFlower – an array of solar panels that resemble a sunflower – and apart from producing clean energy, it also turns heads.
“It’s an attention-grabber,” says Simon Heywood from SmartFlower.
“It naturally draws cellar door guests in through its kinetic movement and iconic design – a captivating conversation starter before the first pour.
“The SmartFlower is visually striking. Guests love to photograph it and share it on social media – amplifying a winery’s reach and sustainability storytelling.
“Visitors feel an emotional connection to it.
“It pairs the artistry and craft of winemaking with responsible land stewardship, deepening visitors’ emotional connection to your brand.”
Four SmartFlowers are installed at Wandilla Estate in the Gippsland.
“It’s an engineering marvel,” says owner Glenn Calder.
“Sustainability is all part of our ethos and hence a SmartFlower. Every person on the farm asks, ‘Why? Tell us about it.’ I think it’s incredible. It looks spectacular.”
Unfolding each morning and tracking the sun throughout the day, SmartFlower is a dynamic and artistic focal point for wineries, vineyard estates, tasting rooms and wine country destinations.
SmartFlower produces high output power during early morning and late afternoon hours, unlike traditional rooftop solar that peaks at midday.
When strong winds are detected, SmartFlower closes into a safety position. When the solar panels fold up, integrated brushes sweep away dust, pollen and debris.
SmartFlower was founded in Austria, a country steeped in a heritage of design, innovation and manufacturing excellence, and where to date more than 2,300 SmartFlowers have been produced.
Energy Management Inc (EMI) – a Boston corporation with more than 50 years of experience developing large energy projects – acquired SmartFlower in 2018.
Many wineries across the world have adopted SmartFlower. Toyota, VW, Adidas, Nike, Carlsberg, Siemens, Vodafone and Red Bull have installed the SmartFlower at the entrances to their corporate offices and factories.
Visit www.smartflower.com or email [email protected]
• For SmartFlower enquiries in NSW, ACT, Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania email Byron McIntyre at [email protected].
• For SmartFlower enquiries in WA, SA and NT email Simon Heywood at [email protected].
• Watch a short video about the Wandilla Estate installation in the Gippsland.
Main photo: The SmartFlower installed at Cass Winery in California.
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