“Designed by Francesco Colarossi, Giovanna Saracino and Luisa Saracino as part of an Italian design contest to re-imagine a decommissioned bridge (for which it placed second), this so-called Solar Wind concept would have solar cells embedded in the roadway (an idea that’s already catching on) and an array of 26 wind turbines underneath, which the designers say could produce enough energy combined to power 15,000 homes. To make the design greener still, the designers have even included a “green promenade” that would run alongside the road, which they suggest could be used to grow fruits and vegetables that’d then be sold to folks driving by.” (via Solar Wind bridge concept could power 15,000 homes, grow vegetables — Engadget)
![Ireland Trying Out Water Powered Streetlights » TreeHugger
“The lights will be installed on a bridge in Ballybofey, and will be powered by the moving water of the River Finn below. After the winter water levels drop, a micro hydro-turbine will be installed under the bridge. As water rushes through the 110 watt turbine, energy generated will charge up batteries, which will then power a 30 watt LED mounted above the bridge.
“It can produce enough energy to power up to three lights. However, we will just use one light at first,” [energy development officer Toni] Needham said.
The hydro unit cost €3,000. The council provided €50,000 in 2008 to pilot alternative energy lighting. LH Ecotech Ltd in Co Laois has been contracted by the council to supply and install hydro and solar power lights on the Ballybofey bridge.”
provided that these units are cheap, i can see this being an amazing trend in cities across the world. rivers that freeze up in winter might not be the best candidates, though.](http://25.media.tumblr.com/kAmWItOW2jvb12m04d5qVPDKo1_400.jpg)
