One of the reasons that rooftop solar panels are so popular is that they effectively use space exposed to UV light, with untapped potential. A solar parking lot using photovoltaics is a similar concept. Flat surface area that cannot be used for much else when vehicles are not present.
Using solar technology that is being researched with solar roadways, incorporating PV cells and other electronic devices into pavement is no longer a far-fetched idea. Along these lines, Solar Roadways received generous grant money in 2009 to develop a 12′ x 12′ solar pavement prototype.
The solar pavement prototype was so impressive that additional grant money has been awarded to Solar Roadways to develop a solar parking lot using photovoltaics. Not only can this technology generate clean, free solar electricity, but solar pavement will also be able to melt snow and ice from its own energy to keep parking lots clear and safe. Solar power generated by a layer of embedded LEDs can illuminate traffic signals, and excess energy generated can even be used for charging electric vehicles parked at the lot.
All surface areas covered by asphalt or pavement could eventually be “solarized.” Beyond roadways and parking lots, why not bike paths, recreational blacktop surfaces, and even driveways?
The potential is exciting, but likely years away. A single 12′ x 12′ solar pavement square costs about $100,000. Yet, covering these surfaces with solar cells could generate three times more than the amount of electricity we currently consume as a nation. With continued solar technology advancements, increased efficiencies and decreased materials costs, it might not be too long before we’re driving, parking and playing on sunshine!