Back in 2014 Amsterdam made international headlines by building the first solar cycle path of the world - the SolaRoad. Now, 3 years later the operators are more than satiesfied. The energy output exceeded all expectations. But the early days weren´t all that bright. Especially the loosening of the coating during the testphase was a major throwback for the enthusiasts as well as the operators.
Even engineers were surprised about the energy output
But already half a year after the opening of the new cycle path, the solar modules had produced more than 3.000 kWh of electricity. That´s enough to provide the energy needed for a one person household. Within the first year the SolaRoad produced 9.800 kWh, that´s because the second half of the measurements was in summer.
Amsterdam´s new cycle path is only the beginning
Solar as well as cycle specialists are now calculating the capacity of the whole Dutch cycle network. They are planning to convert a fifth of the 140.000 km long cycle network into a solar power plant. They could eventually act as a role model for others cities and even countries to follow.
Could we even have solar roads in the future?
Definitely yes. There´s an American company called Solar Roadways Incorporated based in Sandpoint, Idaho aiming to develop solar powered road panels to form a smart highway. Could this be the solution for the energy supply shortage proclaimed by the fuel brothers if were all to drive electric vehicles?! Stay tuned to find out.
Change is in our hands!
