Imagine cycling on paths that not only take you places but also generate green energy as you ride. Well, the Netherlands is turning this into reality with its cutting-edge Wattway project. Picture two cycling paths, one in North Brabant and the other in North Holland, each covering a whopping 1,000 m², adorned with photovoltaic cells by construction heroes Colas and BAM Royal Group.
These solar panels are like super-thin, almost like a wafer, but tough enough to handle the hustle and bustle of cyclists and even vehicles. And get this – they stick right onto existing surfaces, no need for big construction projects. It’s like turning roads and bike paths into smart, energy-generating havens.
The Netherlands, with its incredible 35,000 kilometers of cycling tracks, is all about sustainable transport. The Wattway project aligns perfectly with this ethos, tapping into the sun’s power without messing with the landscapes. The panels absorb sunlight and turn it into electricity, all while providing a safe and grippy surface for tires.
These solar panels can power cool stuff along the way – think charging stations, security cameras, benches, bus shelters, and even dynamic signs. In places like Montpellier, France, they’ve got a security camera watching over bike traffic, fueled by Wattway panels.
And there’s more – a Lidl supermarket in Molt decked out its parking lot with 50m² of Wattway solar panels, cutting down on energy bills and proving that this tech isn’t just for roads. It’s a game-changer for generating electricity in places where regular power grids might not reach.
This isn’t just about paths; it’s about a greener future. With the Wattway project, the Netherlands is turning cycling into a powerhouse, literally. It’s like riding into a future where every pedal push helps light up the world a bit more.
