Through generating energy via footsteps with our smart-flooring technology, Pavegen aims to redefine the way we view and interact with sustainability – powering applications within the public realm entirely off-grid.
We recently installed our latest product, V3, just blocks away from the White House in Washington DC. Comprising three arrays in one pocket park within the city, the technology engages the public with renewable energy and collects rich footfall data analytics from the 10,000 people passing over the Pavegen tiles every day.
Able to withstand extreme weather variations, the 240 sq ft installation will illuminate leisure spaces from pedestrians’ footsteps with the aim of increasing enjoyment and safety within the area.
The V3 technology is designed to seamlessly integrate into public spaces with high footfall traffic, making Connecticut Avenue Overlook, near Dupont Circle, and a busy metro station the perfect place to deploy the flooring. As a clean-tech company determined to change the world, the USA is a good place for Pavegen to start.
Working with the district department of transportation, ZGF and Golden Triangle, we have exposed the clean technology to large brands and companies that are influencers of the built environment.
Decision makers are key in the process of expanding Pavegen and other clean-tech innovations throughout cities, so what better place to install our technology than in Washington DC, the political heartland and capital city of the USA.
Situated a walk away from the residency of the newest president, we hope to influence both public and private sectors about the benefits of renewable energy, especially when some believe that climate change is a hoax.
Clean-tech innovations are on the rise and have a clear aim to relieve the symptoms of global warming, especially within cities. However, these innovations need support and funding, which is looking less likely in America considering recent political events.
The one saving grace in our westernised society is that power does not fully lie with the government.
Large corporations have the power to decide their strategies when it comes to renewable energies and in superpowers such as China, we are seeing an increasing trend in investment and innovation when it comes to clean technologies.
Recent articles have suggested that as president, Trump may have a change of heart towards climate change, where he could face opposition from the majority of the demographic who realise the consequences of not combating this major problem.
The uniqueness of Pavegen lies with the engagement factor of the tech. Pedestrians are given a physical platform that allows them to interact with the digital world. There is an immediate association with your footstep and the energy and data produced.
Our vision is not only to provide the energy and data analytics within smart cities, but also to educate people about off-grid energy, enabling them to see the benefits that it can bring to cities through a tangible experience.
We want to continue our expansion in the US market and deploy our technology in other cities across the country. The installation will allow the public to take collective steps towards a more sustainable future, with perceptions on climate change not merely limited to the president’s opinion.
And perhaps even president Trump will walk over the Pavegen arrays and light a spark, changing the way he views sustainability.
Article first published 2 December 2016
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