Solar panels can be installed in a range of places and a road in Denver is the latest location to benefit from the concept.
Covering a 25-kilometre stretch, the installation is known as the E-470 Solar Project and is capable of generating 696 kilowatts of renewable energy.
The systems are capable of generating around 47 per cent of power used by the highway and are expected to produce one million kilowatt hours of electricity in the first year alone.
Tollways such as this one have been identified as great sites for solar power because they typically use more energy than standard roads.
Not only are there electronic monitoring systems to take into account, but also cameras and technology associated with the highway control centre.
So the next time you're ploughing down a highway, think about how much energy is being used around the road to improve its safety.
Lighting, cameras and other equipment all need their power sourcing from somewhere.
It's not beyond the realms of possibility to think of more solar powered toll roads cropping up – who knows, Australia may even be next!
Posted by Mike Peacock