Are Solar Roadways a Zero Waste of Space Solution For Green Energy?

We have seen an energy revolution over the past decade and change. Green energy, which was once considered a pipe dream, has become an everyday occurrence. Wind turbines, solar panels, tidal generators, and other green energy solutions are taking an ever-larger share of the market. Pressure is mounting on fossil fuels, and for the first time it’s looking like green energy might finally take the lead.

However, there is an inherent problem with green energy solutions… namely, where are we going to find the room for them?

One of the difficulties with green energy solutions is that they take up space. Solar panels can be placed on roofs, of course, but what do you do when rooftop space alone isn’t enough to power the grid? Especially in urban areas, where space is at something of a premium?

Well, according to Inc., the solution might be right under your feet. Solar Roadways, a company which set fundraising records on the site Indiegogo, designs a solar panel that’s meant to be driven on. While prototypes have been impressive, the panels are going to be put to the test in a rest stop in Conway, Missouri along Route 66. 50 of the panels, whose upper layer is made of extremely durable glass, will be installed along the sidewalks with the goal of powering the rest stop. If the panels prove to be a durable, workable solution, then it’s possible they’ll be installed in the parking lot as well.

Solar sidewalks, parking lots, and even roadways (though the panels will likely begin on entrance and exit ramps as a trial-run), have the power to generate electricity, but also to heat themselves in order to prevent snow and ice forming on them. Best of all, though, these solar panels won’t take up any fresh real estate. They’ll just be replacing the concrete and asphalt we barely even notice on a day-to-day basis, while still revolutionizing the way we harvest, and use solar power.