How Japan turns footsteps into electricity?

Japan is tapping into renewable energy through piezoelectric technology, which converts footsteps into electricity. Piezoelectric sensors are embedded in floors, using the mechanical stress from footsteps to generate electricity. This advanced technology is currently being used in systems at Shibuya Station and other high-traffic areas, despite the high installation costs and low power output per step.

 

It's always fascinating to learn about how we harness the forces of nature to create electricity. The power of flowing rivers turns turbines, and windmills capture the wind to generate electricity. But what if the simple act of walking could also generate electricity?

In Japan, this innovative new idea is turning ordinary footsteps into a valuable source of clean energy. Piezoelectricity is the technology behind this unique process, and it has the potential to change the way we think about renewable energy.

 

What is piezoelectricity?

Piezoelectricity is a process in which a material generates an electric charge due to mechanical stress. In Japanese energy innovation, piezoelectric sensors are installed in engineered floors. When someone applies force by stepping on these sensors, mechanical stress is created in the form of pressure, which is then converted into electricity. This current can then power devices and systems.

How is this technology applied in everyday life?

Japan is a pioneer in the use of piezoelectric technology in public areas. The most famous application can be found at Shibuya Station in Tokyo, one of the busiest train stations in the world.

Thousands of people pass through here every day. Their footsteps together generate a large amount of electricity, which powers LED screens, information boards, and other energy-saving devices in the station.

Piezoelectric floors are also used in shopping malls and airports, as these are places with a lot of foot traffic, so energy can be continuously collected. These gadgets are integrated into the floor, once installed, will start cutting down on traditional energy sources and can also contribute to a clean environment.

This groundbreaking new technology offers many benefits, but what are the challenges?

The use of piezoelectric technology has benefits such as: it is a renewable and sustainable source of energy, helps reduce carbon emissions and contributes to reducing fossil fuel consumption.

However, the downside is that the amount of electricity generated from each step is quite small, so a large amount of pedestrian traffic is needed to generate the necessary energy. In addition, the cost of installing piezoelectric systems is relatively expensive and the technology is still in its early stages of application.