Dutch engineers are testing a series of translucent roadside barriers that not only help to quiet traffic, but also help to generate solar power. The roadside noise barriers were designed by Michael Debije who works at the Eindhoven University of Technology.
The innovative roadside barriers operate through the use of high-tech luminescent solar concentrators. These translucent sheets work by bouncing light off of the edges of the panels, where it is then beamed onto regular solar panels in an ultra-concentrated form. The revolutionary panels are designed for the Northern European environment and continue to work under gray skies. The panels are so efficient that just one kilometer of the luminescent solar concentrators can provide enough electricity to power about 50 homes.
Beyond the capacity to generate electricity, the panels also help to mute road sounds. Because the panels are entirely translucent, they are able to shield noise without disrupting the natural landscape.
Noise-Cancelling Roadside Barriers
These Translucent Barriers Mute Traffic and Generate Power
Trend Themes
1. Translucent Noise Barriers - Develop translucent noise barriers that not only help to mute road sounds but also generate solar power through the use of luminescent solar concentrators.
2. High-tech Luminescent Solar Concentrators - Develop high-tech luminescent solar concentrators that can generate electricity efficiently under gray skies.
3. Roadside Solar Power Generation - Develop roadside solar power generation as an innovative and eco-friendly way to power homes while reducing traffic noise pollution.
Industry Implications
1. Green Energy - Green energy industry players can look into incorporating luminescent solar concentrators into their products for more efficient solar power generation.
2. Road Infrastructure - Road infrastructure companies can explore the use of translucent noise barriers as a way to reduce noise pollution and generate electricity on the side.
3. Real Estate Development - Real estate development companies can leverage on road barriers that generate solar power to implement green energy solutions in their building portfolio.