North Dakota State University (NDSU) and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) announced a dual-purpose fence near Moorhead, Minnesota, that simultaneously blocks snow and generates electricity, MPR Newsreported.
The solar snow fence stretches 100 feet and features six-inch wide solar panels. NDSU associate professor Mijia Yang stated that the pilot project can produce 20 to 30 kilowatts daily. Yang also estimated that the 100-foot portion of the fence could generate enough energy for one household and that a mile-long fence could support 50 homes.
Other possible applications include powering electric vehicle (EV) charging stations or rest areas.
The solar snow fence’s ability to power various structures remains purely theoretical. Instead, the generated electricity is currently used to melt snow along the fence through heated pads installed on the ground, a practice that prevents large snow drifts.
The NDSU researchers predicted that the solar snow fence could pay for itself in four years but did not disclose a final cost. MnDOT will consider the technology for future applications when the pilot project ends in June.
According to MPR News, Minnesota has nearly 36 miles of snow fences and 177 miles of windbreaking structures that shield highways from snow.
Image Credit: Dan Gunderson | MPR News
