World population could climb to 9.7 billion by 2050, raising demand for resources, according to UN forecasts. A global energy crisis could result. Solar energy is a long-term renewable solution. In the future, you may have to replace your roof tiles with a solar roof. Even roads and parking lots may have solar panels to power street lamps and batteries for electric vehicles.

A 70-meter Dutch street, built in 6 months, can produce 3,000 kWh of energy, enough to meet a small family's power needs, exceeding expectations.

Implications for the future

 New infrastructure such as roads with solar panels will improve the efficiency of renewable energy and cut its costs. Electric vehicles and other devices will help drive other smart technologies in infrastructure.