The Solar Walkway uses solar energy from the sun to generate power. This power is fed back directly to the local grid or stored in a battery. The electricity can be used to power lights, charge vehicles, or other electronic devices. The floor tiles contain LED lights and are covered with a walkable glass layer to encourage engagement with citizens.
The walkable solar panels are an extension of the public sidewalk between Exploration and Innovation Halls at the intersection of GW Boulevard and University Drive. “GW is proud to announce that the Solar Walk includes the first installation of a walkable solar-paneled sidewalk in the world,” said Selbst.
In addition to the walkable solar panels, the Solar Walk includes a solar-powered trellis designed by Studio39 Landscape Architecture. The trellis was installed at the end of the sidewalk to create energy that feeds back to Innovation Hall.
The panels have an efficiency rating of two-thirds of regular PV panels. They generate up to 35Wp. Each module is 60 x 60 cm. The energy generated is sent back into the grid. 9 sensors on every Walkway module make the floor a powerful touchpad with endless possibilities.
Solar Walkway projects support both indoor and outdoor installations in smart cities, as well as smart buildings. Whether it is a new office space, headquarters, hospital or shopping mall, The Solar Walkway combines smart technology and sustainability to your upcoming building project.
Since, pedestrian walkways are an appropriate spaces for harvesting kinetic energy of walking by pavement and solar energy through the roof. Then, the generated energy will be used for public consumption, which in this study will supply lighting system of the walkway.