Solar Highways

The client, a heating engineer and inventor passionate about developing applications for renewable and sustainable energy sources saw the possibility of utilising solar energy in the provision of portable temporary traffic light systems to control traffic at road works. This had major benefits not only for the contractor but also to the environment. The contractor had low maintenance, low energy cost, no reworks cost from diesel spillages and no cost for engineers topping up diesel tanks. The environment gained benefit from the reduction in carbon and noise pollution.

The challenge was to reduce the power consumption to levels sustainable by a solar array that is easily transportable and deployed. This was achieved with the use of LED technology and redesigned control systems to minimise the load on the solar power pack. By sourcing the latest solar technology we were also able to maximise the power available from the UK’s grey skies.

Deployment of the technology presented its own set of issues. A Trailer needed to be produced that not only presented the photo-voltaic array in an optimum and secure manner but also had to house the Cable Drums, Traffic Lights, Road Signs and Heavy Duty Batteries, etc. The unit had to be self contained and secure. Our engineers devised a suitable vehicle and assisted the client through the rigorous process of obtaining Highways Agency approval.

Manufacture of this product utilised our Fabrication and Metal work skills to the full with strict control over the processes to ensure a quality product that maintains road safety.

The units achieved national acclaim as featured in the BBC’s Science and Technology news reports of the time and were utilised by major civil engineering companies as a cost effective, environmentally friendly solution.