The problem is not the system. The problem is the concept. There is no known manufacturing method that would allow for the construction of cost-effective solar roads that can both withstand the weight and strain of daily driving and deliver acceptably efficient power. Actions taken to improve the efficiency of a road for gathering energy — like tilting the roadbed to match the sun’s travel across the sky and cleaning oil, dirt, and grime from the panels — would make it a less-effective road. Creating a more effective road by using better protective coatings or cheaper manufacturing materials would make the road a less-effective solar panel. Given that solar roads are already far less effective at producing energy than conventional solar installations, one wonders why we don’t leave the roads for driving and optimize the power infrastructure for the specific job it’s good at.