The startup develops solar pavements and roads that integrate photovoltaic technology into precast concrete elements, enabling the conversion of sunlight into electricity. This solution provides renewable energy for public lighting, traffic systems, and electric vehicle charging, addressing the need for sustainable energy sources in urban infrastructure.
Funding
$3.3M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Traditional road construction relies on materials that do not contribute to renewable energy generation, and integrating solar panels requires separate installations, increasing land use and infrastructure costs. There is a need for road surfaces that can simultaneously serve as transportation infrastructure and renewable energy sources.
Solution
SolaRoad develops precast concrete pavement elements with integrated solar panels, enabling roads and pavements to convert sunlight into electricity. These robust solar panels are covered with a skid-resistant, translucent coating, ensuring both safety and durability for various traffic types. The concrete base provides structural support, while the integrated solar panels generate electricity, offering a dual-purpose solution for sustainable infrastructure. The generated electricity can be used for public lighting, traffic systems, electric vehicle charging, or fed back into the grid, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. SolaRoad aims to achieve a similar total cost of ownership compared to regular roads by offsetting the higher initial investment through the sale of generated electricity.
Target Audience
SolaRoad targets road authorities (municipalities, provinces, and national governments), contractors, and businesses looking for sustainable infrastructure solutions, as well as smart city initiatives focused on renewable energy integration.
Features
- Precast concrete slabs integrating crystalline silicon solar cells
- Skid-resistant, translucent coating to protect solar cells and ensure traffic safety
- Modular design for easy installation and replacement on regular road foundations
- Electrical output of approximately 90 kWh/m2/year under Dutch climate conditions
- Potential to power public lighting, traffic management systems, and EV charging stations
- Durable design tested for heavy traffic loads and environmental conditions
- Recyclable materials for sustainable end-of-life management