
13/08/2025
In South Korea, a section of highway is pulling double duty — protecting cyclists and generating clean energy. Between Daejeon and Sejong, a 32 km (20-mile) bike path runs down the highway’s median, with about 9 km (5.6 miles) of it sheltered beneath a roof of solar panels.
This covered section shields riders from sun, rain, and headlight glare, while producing around 2,200 MWh of electricity each year. That’s enough to power roughly 600 homes, light streetlamps, and run public displays in nearby Sejong.
Cyclists access the path via underground tunnels, keeping them safely separated from vehicle traffic. With over 7,500 solar panels in place, it’s a smart blend of safety, comfort, and sustainability.
It’s proof that even small design choices — like covering part of a bike lane — can deliver big benefits for people and the planet.