Solar Panel Roads

[Croxden]

This seems a good idea, do't think it would work here though. They are always digging up the roads.
http://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/news/view/pilot-solar-panel-road-opens-in-netherlands

 

[neptune]

Sounds a bit of a strange idea to me. Traffic of whatever kind will shade it from the sun. I suppose it would be a good idea if the electricity could directly power bikes as they ran over it, a bit like the dodgems at the fair. One of the problems with solar panels, is where to put them. Roofs are a good place, until your roof needs maintenance.

Here in Lincolnshire, we have some of the best agricultural land in the world. We already have several existing solar farms with more planned. We probably have more sunshine hours than say Wales. That is a shame because Wales has some marginal hill farm land that is only suitable for a few skinny sheep.

Not sure what the answer is. Perhaps solar panels that act as a roof, so no separate roof maintenance is needed.

 

[OldFart]

Been debunked many times. Their figures are best scenario, Which is not what will happen in real life.

Figures based on panels being 100% efficient which they are not even close, The wiring has zero loss which wont work, Controllers are 100% efficient also.

They claim the LEDs are visible in daylight, But never show them in the sunlight at the correct angle that you would view them if driving.

This is one of the better explanations. 26m long so have a cuppa to hand

 

[Croxden]

As convincing as A Clarkson rant.

 

[the_killjoy]

They also didn't address the fundamental issue of grip, especially in the wet.

 

[OldFart]

Good job they didn't go on Dragons Den with Theo Paphitis, He would have shown them in 2 seconds why it wont work.

Smash....

 

[MikeyBikey]

Cost, wear n tear, and digs are all against them & 'glow in dark' surfaces too.
If the existing roads aren't being maintained and London is even dropping coloured cyclepath surfaces to save money, it doesn't look favourable.