A solar tree with giant square leaves that convert sunlight into electricity has been unveiled in the central French town of Nevers, allowing passers-by to charge their phones, surf the Internet or just enjoy the shade.

The town of 37,000 on the Loire river is the first in Europe to experiment with the technology developed by Israeli company Sol-logic.

The first prototype* was unveiled in Israel in 2014.

Inspired by the acacia* tree found in the Israeli desert and African savanna*, the futuristic-looking eTree also supplies water and street lighting. The tree has seating, USB charging and a water fountain, with a separate water trough* for pets. It also provides a source of light at night and free Wi-Fi, as well as an integrated liquid crystal display (LCD*) screen. Its “leaves” are solar panels that power the eTree.

The first prototype was unveiled in Israel in 2014. A year later the first operational model was presented at the COP 21 climate conference in Paris, and it’s that same tree that was re-planted in Nevers. Since then solar trees have been planted in around 10 cities in Israel and in the United States.

The mayor of Nevers, Denis Thuriot, said the eTree was a symbol of the town’s digital engagement since 2014. He said the tree will be planted in 20 other places.(SD-Agencies)