What if all roads could have solar panels? Imagine the amount of electricity a country could generate that way. Solar is perhaps limited in regions because of land which is a limited resource but road apart from people driving on them are of little use anyway, so this twin use policy of using roads for generation of electricity could radically transform energy security. The idea is so simple, that one wonders why research labs can never come up with it.
The project is envisioned by Julie and Scott Brusaw. While Scott is an electrical engineer (MSEE) with over 20 years of industry experience, Julie has a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Humboldt State University in northern California.
The team has ideas for two kinds of roads, one with a semi-smooth walking surface on which you could drive a car safely and another with raised hexagons that is more ideal for highways and can stop a car going 80-mph on a wet surface. The roads are as safe as the traditional roads and slip is not an issue. The walking surface can also be used for sidewalks, bike paths, driveways, parking lots, etc. Best part is that the current road can be reused unless of course you are talking of roads in India.
These solar panels are self sufficient in monetary terms as they pay for themselves because of electricity generation. Solar Roadways project has already received two phases of funding from the U.S. Federal Highway Administration for R&D.
The project was a finalist in the World Technology Award For Energy, was chosen by Google to be one of their Moonshots in May, 2013 and was also a finalist in the IEEE Ace Awards in 2009 and 2010.
The project is currently seeking funding on indiegogo.com .
Read more about the project on their website.
Ever wished your mobile phone could do more than just send memes and crush candies? Well, buckle up, because we're about to take your mobile…
As of 2023, 106 million people worldwide had bitcoins but the currency's influence on the environment is disproportionate. The primary method of cryptomining, known as…
In today’s modern world, where environmental issues are becoming more and more important, teaching kids to be environmentally conscious and eco-friendly is crucial to building…
Our houses offer a safe haven from the outside world amid the chaos of modern life. However, common contaminants emitted by furniture, cleaning supplies, and…
Scrap metal recycling stands as a cornerstone of sustainable waste management, playing a pivotal role in mitigating the environmental impact of metal production and waste…
If the worry of affording your next energy bill is giving you sleepless nights, you’re not alone. Millions of people in the UK have this…