Assessing the Structural, Driver and Economic Impacts of Traffic Pole Mounted Wind Power Generator and Solar Panel Hybrid System

Sharma, Anuj; Rosenbaugh, Scott; Appiah, Justice · 2012 · ROSA P / Mid-America Transportation Center

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Summary

This study evaluates the physical, structural, and economic feasibility of mounting lightweight wind power generators and solar panel hybrid systems on existing traffic infrastructure, specifically traffic signal and street light poles. Motivated by the transportation sector’s significant energy consumption and the potential for renewable energy to reduce highway agency operating costs, the research aims to determine if these poles can safely support additional energy-generating devices while providing economic benefits. The project addresses the lack of standardized guidelines for assessing the impacts of such installations on transportation infrastructure. The methodology involved a multi-faceted approach combining structural analysis, physical feasibility checks, and economic modeling. Structural assessments utilized Lincoln, Nebraska, standard plans for pole and foundation designs. The researchers employed first-principles wind load analysis and explicit finite element analysis using LS-Dyna to evaluate fatigue. They examined three critical design configurations: a wind turbine with two solar panels, one solar panel, or the turbine alone, mounted at the highest possible locations to maximize stress. Loading scenarios included alternative vortex shedding and direct drag, analyzed against AASHTO allowable stress limits. Physical feasibility was assessed through zoning law reviews and topographical analysis to ensure wind flow was not obstructed. Economic impacts were evaluated via a before-and-after study at a test intersection in Lincoln, using VISSIM modeling for traffic simulation and a cost-benefit analysis to measure efficiency. The structural analysis determined that the total calculated stresses in anchor bolts and poles remained within acceptable AASHTO limits for the proposed configurations, indicating that existing traffic poles can structurally support the hybrid systems. The physical feasibility check confirmed that local zoning laws in Lincoln permitted the installation, and the site’s topography lacked significant obstructions that would disrupt wind flow. The economic analysis focused on benefits from electricity production and backup power capabilities, alongside costs associated with system installation and potential traffic conflicts. The study developed methodologies to quantify emission savings and the economic value of avoiding traffic signal power outages. The significance of this research lies in its provision of a framework for decision-makers to assess the viability of deploying renewable energy systems on transportation infrastructure. By demonstrating that traffic poles can structurally accommodate wind and solar hybrids and by outlining the economic implications, the study supports the transition of public right-of-way from energy consumers to producers. The findings offer guidance for future implementations, highlighting the potential for reduced operating costs and increased sustainability in highway systems, while identifying the need for further standardization in policy and impact assessment tools.

Key finding

Structural analysis confirmed that traffic signal poles can safely support hybrid wind and solar systems within allowable stress limits, while economic analysis showed the system provides cost-effective backup power and reduces electricity costs.

Methodology

modeling

Provenance

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• roadway lighting effects