An Envision Solar Tree with Chevy Volts plugged in. [Photo Credit: Envision Solar]

Envision Solar and GM are teaming up to plug more Chevy Volts directly into the sun.

Envision announced recently it has broken ground on a project to build a Tracking Solar Tree with EnvisionTrak technology at GM’s Milford Proving Ground. The ‘Solar Tree’ will be outfitted with EV charging stations so that Volts parked underneath it can ‘drink’ up sun-generated electricity.

25 percent more efficient
According to Envision, the Solar Tree’s “dual synchronous solar tracking system” gives the array the ability to capture 25 percent more solar power than a conventional fixed solar canopy.

The structure will produce up to 30,000 kWh a year and provide enough solar energy to charge six electric vehicles per day, says Envision.

“Solar Trees, deployed in parking lots, will go a long way in helping us reach our renewable energy goals,” said Rob Threlkeld, GM’s Global Manager of Renewable Energy. “It’s important to us that we use architecturally beneficial products, like the Solar Tree, whenever we are deploying in high visibility sites.”

This project marks the installation of a second Tracking Solar Tree® on GM property. In November 2011, the two companies cut the ribbon on a Solar Tree at a GM site in Warren, Mich.

“We are excited by the prospect of our tracking Solar Tree arrays in GM facilities and dealerships all over the country and this ground breaking in Michigan is the latest step in that journey,” said Desmond Wheatley, President and CEO of Envision Solar.

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