Solar roadways address one of the most pressing issues of the modern age: what will we do when our fossil fuel supply runs dry? Currently, the modern world’s blood is made of oil, gas, and coal, yet all of these sources of energy are being depleted. However, the end of times may yet be forestalled, thanks to the arrival of Solar Roadways! These hexagonal units replace asphalt, concrete, and gravel with solar panels covered with a new tempered glass material-which, by the way, is made of as much recyclable material as possible.

The amazing thing about these units is the fact that they revolutionize the utility of a massive element of the nation’s infrastructure. Solar Roadways would passively generate electricity after being implemented, which basically allows taxpayer funds in regards to this project to also reduce energy bills. Along with the surplus of energy generated, a small portion is used to keep the panels’ surface temperatures above the freezing point. This is particularly useful when considering the amount of accidents caused by ice and snow annually in the United States. These self-efficient panels would also eliminate the need for using taxpayer money to pay for plowing and salting of roads. Moreover, each panel has LED lights programmed to display parking signs and warning signs. With these lights, repainting the roads is not necessary anymore, and highway roads can light up ahead to improve the visibility and see possible dangers ahead. Because these solar panels are pressure-sensitive, they can detect branches, boulders, and animals; these smart-roads warn drivers to slow down and prevent further accidents. Finally, cable corridors run concurrently with the road themselves, which can replace power cords. Telephone poles and hanging wires will not be a problem anymore, since all of the power would run through cables underground beside the roads.

In summary, Solar Roadways offer increased safety, will decrease the cost of energy as we shift away from fossil fuel dependency, can use recycled material in production, and are currently in development. The small town of Sandpoint, Idaho plans to host the first application of this technology to a section of road and sidewalk in its downtown area. Without question, this technological development is something to get excited about!