Japan's highways to generate power

An innovative approach to power generation is being taken in Japan, with highway companies planning to rent out space to utility companies to install solar power arrays.
February 23, 2012 Read time: 1 min
An innovative approach to power generation is being taken in Japan, with highway companies planning to rent out space to utility companies to install solar power arrays. Existing sound insulation barriers could be fitted with solar panels, while additional barriers could be installed to carry the solar power generators. The plan is intended to boost solar power generation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The plan will also help reduce the impact of highways in urban areas as the solar arrays will provide additional noise attenuation capabilities. Under a plan from the 3052 Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, highway firms will rent out roadside embankments, soundproof walls and other unused space in the highway system throughout the country to 900 Kyocera, 901 Toshiba, 3051 Sharp and other solar power generation companies. The plan will be commencing in 2012.
Highway & Network Management

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Trimble’s innovation with new technology
    January 11, 2019
    Trimble is developing highly advanced technologies for the construction and quarrying sectors – Mike Woof writes Trimble is working on a number of highly innovative technologies that could revolutionise the construction and aggregates production sectors. Perhaps the most eye-catching of all of these innovations is for the autonomous compactor and dozer system Trimble is in the process of developing at present. Scott Crozier is general manager of Trimble’s general construction division. He said that whi
    Read More
  • Italian road infrastructure developments underway
    July 17, 2023
    Major Italian road infrastructure developments are underway.
    Read More
  • Dozers and graders provide finishing cut
    November 6, 2012
    Established players face increasing competition in the market for bulldozers and graders - Mike Woof reports The world’s largest manufacturer of construction equipment, Caterpillar is a company with a strong position worldwide and this has all grown from its track type tractor range. Caterpillar has long dominated the bulldozer market, as well as being involved in the grader segment since the inter-war period. The firm’s history ties it directly to the development of the crawler track with Ben Holt’s track
    Read More
  • Low emissions power from Cummins
    May 25, 2021
    Cummins has launched its latest B6.7 Performance Series engine, which the firm says meets the strict Stage V emissions standards by a near-zero emission levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter PM)
    Read More

Highlighted Content