# Broadleaf Urban Generators The uTree Concept Soaks Up the Sun and Supplies the City Grid By Amelia Roblin | Published 2012-02-13 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/utree References: [tuvie](http://www.tuvie.com/utree-urban-photovoltaic-tree-by-xabier-perez-de-arenaza/) & [behance.net](http://www.behance.net/gallery/uTree____________________-the-urban-photovoltaic-tree/3068441) This definitely isn't the first arboreal-inspired eco generator, but the uTree Urban Photovoltaic Tree comes with a crop of compelling concepts. Xabier Perez de Arenaza envisions his invention doing more than its predecessors have proposed, aiming to power more than mere lampposts and make a bigger difference as a proper metropolitan power source. Fractal mathematics prescribed the uTree's intricate branchlike forms, made from painted tubular steel pipes. An open design system makes them customizable before the [lily pad shaped leaves](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-leaves) are installed at the ends. This [solar paneled foliage](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/michael-jantzen-2) can rotate with the movement of the sun, maximizing on its energizing rays to power [streetlights, traffic lights](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/urban-lighting-innovations), public transportation, Wi-Fi and even the electricity of civic buildings. Multiple uTree Urban Photovoltaic Trees can be installed in clusters and connected through their roots to establish a successful network. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.9/10 - Popularity: 82% | Activity: 87% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Arboreal-inspired Eco Generators:** The uTree Urban Photovoltaic Tree is just one example of the growing trend of eco generators inspired by trees and foliage, presenting numerous opportunities to create urban power sources. - **Fractal-based Designs:** The uTree's utilization of fractal mathematics to create intricate branch-like forms offers innovative design opportunities in various industries, including architecture and structural engineering. - **Wireless and Sustainable Power:** The uTree's potential to power Wi-Fi and public transportation, among other things, exemplifies the trend towards wireless, sustainable power sources, providing opportunities for eco-tech and transportation industries. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Renewable Energy:** The uTree Urban Photovoltaic Tree highlights the increasing importance of renewable energy in industries focused on power generation and distribution. - **Urban Planning:** The uTree's ability to be installed in clusters to establish a successful network suggests opportunities in urban planning and development. - **Smart Cities:** The uTree's potential to provide power for various city systems exemplifies the trend towards smart city solutions, particularly in the energy and transportation sectors. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Grid-Connected Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/solar-electric-pavilion.md) - [Urban Solar Charging Benches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/perovia.md) - [Air-Purifying Tree Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/treeone.md) - [Tree-Lined Urban Highways](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dubai-green-spine.md) - [Solar Energy Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/michael-jantzen-2.md) - [Tree-Inspired Panelled Workspaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hood-design-studio.md) - [Energy-Generating Park Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/energy-park.md) - [Forest Tower Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wonderwoods-vertical-forest.md) - [Urban Greening Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/urban-green.md)