Episode 36 | Kinetic Kilowatts | Constructis
I first came across Constructis through E4 Carolinas, and this company was unlike anything I've ever seen.
The company's Roadway Energy X Platform, or "REX" absorbs energy from the downward motion of a vehicle pressing down on its rumble strips. The company's founder, Jim Nigg, tells me that a normal car traveling at 5 mph can generate 1,100 watts of energy.
Each REX Unit contains batteries and sensors for self-monitoring. These batteries can store energy, providing a more constant stream of energy to the grid.
A product like this fascinating because it could essentially be placed on any road surface. Though I came into the interview expecting the company would only be considering a multi-lane mega-highways, Jim tells me they are actually focused on slower velocities, such as Interstate exit ramps, parking garages, and border crossings. Plus, the current model has not addressed the issue of "ramping" when a vehicle crosses it at high speeds.
The product is essentially ready for commercial use. Constructis is currently on the cusp of operations, and we spoke a great deal about the challenges of securing funding for a product that makes sense, but has no history.
I look forward to the day when I drive over a rumble strip on a busy street and know I'm giving a little back to the grid.
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