Well, this is an exciting project~
Solar panels on the road!
My first reaction to it was, of course, to wonder whether that would be sustainable and durable. Cars (and trucks!) driving by solar panels every single time? That’s apparently the first thing in people’s minds, so they’ve assured us “Solar Roadways is a modular paving system of solar panels that can withstand the heaviest of trucks (250,000 pounds).”
And things get even more exciting~
They have many other features as well, including: heating elements to stay snow/ice free, LEDs to make road lines and signage, and attached Cable Corridor to store and treat stormwater and provide a “home” for power and data cables. EVs will be able to charge with energy from the sun (instead of fossil fuels) from parking lots and driveways and after a roadway system is in place, mutual induction technology will allow for charging while driving.
It’s basically a giant led screen -that charges itself- on the floor for signage (no more painting and paving!) and heating for snow and ice! I wonder how it does with floods and scorching heat, though. Imagine the system going down after a massive rain or overflowing of a nearby river… tropical storm or tsunami. Or the overheating of the floor, ending up in flames or melted shoes (or tires).
Did I ever tell you about the time that my sneakers melted when I was doing sandboard?
Still… imagine the possibilities if done right.
