Solar Alliance Energy has launched a photovoltaic charging station for robotic lawnmowers.
The Powershed system allows users to cut the cord and place a robotic mower anywhere the sun shines, the company said.
Solar Alliance developed the design in cooperation with a researcher from the University of Tennessee and a provisional patent application has been filed with the US Patent office.
The first Powershed unit has been installed at the University of Tennessee and is currently operating.
Solar Alliance said the unit is designed to meet demand through a scalable production model and will initially be offered through commercial distribution partners and direct sales.
The possibility of sub-licensing the product to robotic lawnmower manufacturers exists and will be pursued as demand increases.
In order to scale quickly and capitalize on this opportunity, Solar Alliance is assessing potential manufacturing partners to help support the marketing of Powershed across North America.
Solar Alliance chief executive Myke Clark said: “As an innovative provider of solar energy solutions, we are excited to launch Powershed and provide a convenient charging solution for the fast-growing robotic lawnmower industry.
“We have submitted a provisional patent application with the long-term goal of licensing the technology to regional or national landscaping distributors.
“The robotic lawnmower industry is growing rapidly as customers look for alternatives to gas powered lawnmowers.
“This is a simple, elegant technology that will provide further long-term value to Solar Alliance shareholders.”