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

  • US asphalt and quarry show highlights new technology
    May 8, 2015
    New technology was one key focus area for the World of Asphalt/AGG1 event run recently in the US city of Baltimore - Mike Woof writes Technology has been a major focus for the combined World of Asphalt and AGG1 2015 exhibition and conference held in Baltimore. The exhibition area attracted 450 exhibitors and covered a larger area than for previous events, while over 10,000 education season tickets were bought by those wanting to attend the presentation sessions. The event was held from March 17th- March
    Read More
  • Bigger and more productive dozers coming to market
    March 30, 2016
    New generation bulldozers are coming to market that are more powerful, more productive and more efficient. Both Komatsu and Liebherr are upgrading and expanding their model ranges at present for example. From Komatsu Europe comes the highly efficient D61EX/PX-24 dozer, which is said to be highly versatile and able to carry out a wide array of grading or earthmoving applications. Improved features include an upgraded cab and a new automatic idling engine shut down system. Proven features from the earlier
    Read More
  • Expanding the Panamericana Oestae Highway in Panama
    November 3, 2023
    Expansion of the Panamericana Oeste highway is an infrastructure project that will help guarantee the future of Panama - Mauro Nogarin writes
    Read More
  • Weighty matters for developing countries
    November 6, 2012
    One leading Weigh in Motion technology manufacturer is helping governments in developing countries reduce excessive road damage, while several others have seen their latest WIM systems recently used on the highways of Eastern Europe. Guy Woodford reports Recent Central Weighing WIM installations in Bangladesh are helping its national government reduce the financial burden of excessive road damage, while also protecting many bridges that are vital to transport and trade. The need for such installations was e
    Read More

Highlighted Content