HomeMotoring UKRoads in future to have a solar-powered glass? Jayne Henry February 1, 2011 Motoring UK Solar Powered Roads An Engineer from Idaho believes Solar-Powered Glass will be the future for our Roads. Scott Brusaw, has been refining his concept of the road of the future for some time and believe the super-strong glass and solar cells embedded below the top layers could serve as both a nexus of travel and energy. You might think the major problem would the durability of the glass, however this is not the case as the glass developers can create a material that is strong enough for this. The Major cost is the cost, as it will cost approximately £2.7 million per mile to lay down the new super-glass roadway. Although this may sound a lot for the initial cost, the road will eventually recoup this money and an even better return as the power generated from the road could power nearby business. As the sun energizes the solar cells, energy can be transferred to power street signs, nearby homes and roadside businesses. And then in more icy conditions the energy could heat the roads and melt the snow and ice and therefore eliminate the need for gritters. This would certainly work on our roads at the moment with the harsh snow and frost we have been experiencing. Brusaw hopes to try and improve the effectiveness to his idea by trailing it out in existing parking lots. He hopes these lots would be heated and eventually become a recharging station for electric vehicles. However with state of public spending at the moment I would say we are a long way of getting our current roads updated with the new solar powered glass. What are your thoughts do you think our roads should be updated sooner rather than later?
