On May 11th, 2011 Scott Brusaw contributed the following questions in an interview with QuestionsForLiving®. This interview focuses on Solar Roadways, and the concept of creating roads capable of generating electricity from the power of the sun.
QuestionsForLiving: What were the primary questions that you were asking yourself that led you to the idea of a Solar Roadways?
Brusaw: The initial question was, "What can we do to eliminate the greenhouse gases that are causing Global Warming?" We learned that about 50% of greenhouse gases come from burning coal to make electricity and another 25% comes from our exhaust pipes. Eliminating the need for coal and making EVs practical (eliminating the need for internal combustion engines) could solve 75% of the problem.
QFL: Are there certain fundamental / core questions that you have asked yourself over the course of your life that contributed to your interest in engineering and pursuit of creating Solar Roadway?
Brusaw: I've always been extremely interested in how everything works - I'm sure that's why I became an engineer. I've dreamed of electric roads since I was a kid. I thought that, if roads were electric like my slot car track, kids could drive and relieve our parents of that awesome responsibility!
QFL: What questions would you advise others ask themselves to best harness their abilities to innovate, and create new solutions or technologies?
Brusaw: What is your gift? Not necessarily your skill sets, but what is your core gift? I long thought that my gift was all things electric (I'm a EE), but that doesn't really go deep enough. My real gift is understanding how things work: it doesn't really matter if it's electrical or mechanical. Understanding what your true gift is can allow you to go a long way in innovation.
QFL: What are some primary questions would you advise others to ask themselves that if asked regularly would contribute to making the world a happier and healthier place?
Brusaw: At what point does the "bottom-line" justify wrecking our planet or taking people's livelihoods away?
For more information regarding Solar Roadways, please visit: