Super-tough solar panels can convert roads into power plants

This is an innovative idea from the Department of Energy and Solar Roadways. The roads in the country soak up a lot of sunlight and there is nothing better than converting this sunlight into energy. Solar Roadways just got a $100,000 grant from the DoE to design and build a 12 x 12 foot super-tough solar panel that is being intended to be laid as sections of the road. The panels will also have a layer of low resolution LED lights so they could display changing signage. We all know how expensive regular solar panels are and we are talking about super-tough solar panels because we must not forget that these are going to be used by all types of vehicles and also abusive treatment from the weather as well. Considering all this, don’t you think that this all very far-fetched?

According to the company, the entire country’s energy needs can be met if the interstate system was replaced with these panels. Very nice idea but where are the dollars for this? New taxes I suppose!
[Gizmodo]