Solar Roadways unveiling today
<p>Heating elements within the colorfully lit LED solar pavement panels melt the snow to keep the surface clear.</p>
SANDPOINT — The first public demonstration of Solar Roadways is set to unveil today at Jeff Jones Town Square.
A tent currently covers the new solar panels developed by Solar Roadways, Inc. The panels encompass 150 square feet of the pedestrian path near the fountain and public restrooms at the square. The project is a joint effort by the owners of Solar Roadways, Scott and Julie Brusaw and the city of Sandpoint.
"This is an exciting project for Sandpoint and it showcases one of the defining and most unexpected characteristics of our community — our innovation," said City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton.
The demonstration will provide testing for Solar Roadways' SR3 panel in a pedestrian and bicycle application. Heating elements built into the panels will melt the snow and ice, and LED lights will feature interactive displays.
Also beginning today, a live webcam link will be available on the city's website at www.sandpointidaho.gov for anyone unable to view the demonstration in person. Live footage will be available 24 hours and information will be available regarding energy generation and use by the panels. The city has been installing infrastructure for fiber Internet, which will come into use with the Solar Roadways project as well.
The project was funded primarily through a Gem grant through the Idaho Department of Commerce, as well as a grant through the Sandpoint Urban Renewal Agency.
The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for 3 p.m. at the town square. The Brusaws will be available afterward for a meet-and-greet and to answer brief questions by the public.