Solar Powered Highways
Oregon is installing the nation’s first solar demonstration project in a highway right of way, moving the state a step further in its role as a leader in renewable power development. The solar highway demonstration project is an “all Oregon” effort — Oregon companies will supply materials, design and install this collaborative project. SolarWorld AG of Hillsboro will supply the solar panels, and PV Powered, Inc. of Bend will supply the inverter. The 104-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system–covering about 8,000 square feet and roughly the length of two football fields–will produce about 112,000 kilowatt hours a year, or 28% of the 400,000 kilowatt hours used to light the interchange. The $1.3 million project is expected to be completed and online in December 2008. (SustainableBusiness)