Think of how hot the pavement gets in the summertime, when you take off your shoes, there's not much your bare feet can do but scurry at top speed as the soles of your feet are scalded. There's a lot of heat energy that gets sucked in from the sun! Now Dutch researchers have found a unique way to utilize it to heat homes and offices!
The Road Energy System designed by civil engineering firm, Ooms Avenhorn Holding BV, is using the energy from asphalted roads and parking lots. The Ooms product was actually an accidental discovery after searching for a solution for soaring road maintenance costs. They found a way to use the sun's power to heat water in a maze of flexible pipes under the asphalt. This water remain hot well into the winter when the water can be used to de-ice the roads.
This is so exciting considering the sun is one of the most amazing renewable energies. Don't be surprised to see more solar innovations in the coming months!
Asphalt for Energy
Road Energy System
Trend Themes
1. Solar Roads - Opportunity for developing innovative energy solutions by harnessing the heat energy from asphalted roads and parking lots to heat homes and offices.
2. Renewable Energy - Utilizing solar power as a renewable energy source for heating water and de-icing roads, leading to cost savings and sustainability.
3. Innovative Heating Solutions - Exploring new ways to use the sun's power to heat water in a maze of pipes under asphalt, providing affordable and efficient heating systems.
Industry Implications
1. Civil Engineering - Opportunity for civil engineering firms to design and implement road energy systems that utilize heat energy from asphalt to reduce maintenance costs and promote sustainability.
2. Renewable Energy - Renewable energy industry can benefit from developing technologies that harness the heat energy from asphalted roads and parking lots to provide heating solutions.
3. Infrastructure Maintenance - Opportunity for companies specialized in road and infrastructure maintenance to incorporate innovative solutions like the Road Energy System to improve road safety and reduce costs.