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

  • Innovations introduced to optimise milling
    September 28, 2015
    New developments for the milling machine sector should help optimise performance, as well as increase health and safety standards for site personnel Advances in the milling machine market generally focus on new models being available or developments to drums and cutters. However some rather different developments are taking place that could well deliver long-term improvements for health and safety as well as the quality of work carried out, optimising milling operations. Earlier this year, new guideli
    Read More
  • Power Curbers sees strong machine sales
    May 15, 2019
    Power Curbers has seen strong sales of its machines during 2018, with demand expected to continue through 2019 – Mike Woof writes Power Curbers has seen strong sales for its slipformers during 2018, with customers keen to replace ageing equip-ment. Sales of the 5700-C have been very healthy. One of the key changes in the market that Power Curbers has observed is with the growing interest in machine control solutions amongst its customers. Power Curbers said that there has been a massive change in custom
    Read More
  • Danube bridge takes shape
    February 10, 2012
    A new bridge over the River Danube between Bulgaria and Romania is expected to benefit to the economies of both nations. Krasimir Krastanov reports
    Read More
  • The era of workzone data
    July 4, 2018
    Portable work zone messaging is now integral - not an add-on - when it comes to safety on large-scale highway projects. Andrew Williams* reports. Portable work zone ITS solutions have emerged in recent years as important flexible tools for managing major roadwork projects, from new-build to upgrades. They effectively ensure traffic disruption is kept to a minimum and lives can be saved. As such, the technology forms a central component of a major €1.7 billion project in the southern English county of Cambr
    Read More

Highlighted Content