An American firm is currently working on a prototype solar panel that could be embedded into existing roads. The company, Solar Roadways, won a $100,000 grant from the US Department of Transportation.

The panels would also be covered with a mosaic of small lights, which could be illuminated to provide road markings and warning messages to drivers. They could also be embedded with heaters to keep the road clear by melting snow and ice. A four-lane, one-mile stretch of road made from the panels could generate enough power for 500 homes. Solar Roadways plans to develop its idea to allow the energy produced to be channeled into the national grid, as well as sold to drivers of electric cars on the roadside.