A system that uses kinetic energy from commuters’ footsteps to power two phone charging benches and a real-time data screen has been installed at Leighton Buzzard railway station.
Funded by the Department of Transport through a £22.9 million ADEPT SMART places Live Labs programme, the kinetic flooring has been installed by Pavegen and Central Bedfordshire Council, and raises awareness of sustainability through the footsteps of around 1.75m people who travel to and from the station.
Central Bedfordshire Council secured £1.05m for the Live Labs programme and partnered with Ringway Jacobs, West Midlands Trains and Pavegen, to create the project.
Cllr Ian Dalgarno, Executive Member for Community Services at Central Bedfordshire Council said: “I am delighted that Central Bedfordshire Council is part of this exciting and innovative trial as part of the ADEPT Live Labs Programme. This trial looks at how we could use kinetic energy to power nearby highway assets and having seen the installation I am really impressed with how the Pavegen technology works. It’s our first Live Labs trial to be completed and I am certain it is something I think our residents will really engage with.”
Giles Perkins, Live Labs Programme Director said: “The untapped footfall energy at our transport hubs represents a real opportunity to provide sustainable energy sources to power bespoke applications, while engaging audiences and encouraging behavioural change. This trial will help demonstrate the viability of the technology and could be a step change in the way transport hubs engage with commuters.”
Photo credit: Central Bedfordshire Council
0113 2082620
info@railbusinessdaily.com
15 Mariner Court, Wakefield WF4 3FL
