We’re used to seeing solar panels on rooftops and open fields, but what if the roads we drive on could generate electricity too? Here’s a quick dive into #SolarRoadways: 

What are solar roadways? 

Simply put, they’re roads embedded with solar panels designed to produce energy while still supporting vehicle traffic. 

Real-world applications 

The first solar roadway in the U.S. was installed in 2020 in Peachtree Corners, Georgia, showcasing the potential of this technology in the nation’s first “smart city.” 

The big hurdle 

Cost. High installation and maintenance expenses are a major challenge, and durability is another concern—solar panels just don’t hold up like asphalt. 

⚠️ Safety vs. efficiency 

Driving on glass? It’s slippery. Adding texture for grip might help, but it can reduce how efficiently these panels generate power. 

Reality check 

While solar roadways are a bold and innovative idea, they’re not quite ready for prime time when it comes to widespread energy production. 

What do you think—are solar roadways the future or just a flashy experiment?