Sandpoint's Energy-Tiles Public Test Paves Way for 'Solar Roads'

Sandpoint's energy-tiles public test could prove to be really big in paving the way for "solar roads." Though tucked away in Idaho, Sandpoint (population 7,500) wants the whole to watch the test via live webcam.

Solar Roadways' idea is that instead of solar panels on buildings or in yards and fields, they would be installed on roads to serve as markers for warnings and instructions, according to Esist.

Installing solar panels on roads could also reduce the amount of energy used to keep roads lit up between dusk and the morning, noted Ubergizmo.

Solar road would be especially useful in winter months as the electricity they could generate would help melt snow.

In addition, based on recent tests by the company, the solar power from roads is expected to create power for fountains and restrooms located in public areas, Esist noted.

Though the plan for solar roads has a larger vision, Solar Roadways is starting small by only deploying 30 panels in Sandpoint.

If the solar roads have early success, Solar Roadways will deploy more panels.

Sandpoint's live webcam is focused on the tiles to give viewers an idea of what the future could look like.

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