Energy Harvesting From Roadways

Abstract

The rapid growth in energy consumption and the need for sustainable alternatives have driven researchers to explore unconventional energy sources. Roadways, which constitute vast networks with significant vehicular activity, hold untapped potential for energy harvesting. This paper investigates innovative methodologies to harness energy from roadways leveraging advancements in piezoelectric, thermoelectric and photovoltaic technologies. Piezoelectric materials embedded in road surfaces can convert mechanical stress from vehicle motion into electrical energy. Thermoelectric systems utilize heat generated by vehicular friction and solar radiation to produce power.