Paving new bike paths is a great way to encourage carbon-free transportation and cut car emissions, and now The Netherlands is getting ready to roll out an energy-generating solar cycle path. The project, known as SolaRoad, has been developed by the TNO research institute along with the Province of North Holland, the Ooms Avenhorn Group and Imtech. It is currently slated to be constructed in the town of Krommenie, near Amsterdam.


While the SolaRoad is still in the initial concept stage, it is expected to be finished in 2012. The cycle path is made from thick concrete blocks covered with a 1cm thick layer of silicon solar cells. The photovoltaics are protected by tough glass, which allows cyclists to travel over them. SolaRoad is expected to generate 50 kWh per square meter per year. The electricity will then be used for street lighting, traffic systems, or household use.

Source:  Inhabitat.com