Maximizing Right-of-Way Potential: Pioneering Interstate Energy Integration

Back in 2019, The Ray—in partnership with Georgia Power and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)—launched the Southeast’s first right-of-way (ROW) energy generation project. This installation harnesses open land at interstate exits while utilizing the ground beneath arrays for native, wildflower habitats that support local pollinators and stabilize roadside soils.

Unlocking the Value of Empty Roadside Land

Most states feature more than 200 miles of cleared, unshaded right-of-way acreage at interstate exits alone. These underutilized public assets represent immediate opportunities for infrastructure development. Utilizing these spaces for localized energy generation can produce approximately $4 billion in annual economic value while generating up to 36 TWh of capacity per year.

To help state agencies identify and evaluate these locations, The Ray partnered with the Webber Energy Group at the University of Texas at Austin to build the nation’s first roadside mapping tool.

Powering the Future of Fleet Electrification

With millions of electric vehicles projected on U.S. roads by 2030, the demand for accessible charging infrastructure continues to grow. By leveraging empty interstate roadsides, agencies can generate massive amounts of power directly adjacent to transit corridors. This localized generation can feed high-power charging depots positioned at key interchanges, ensuring convenient access for medium- and heavy-duty commercial trucks.

Explore the full press release or access the national mapping tool to discover how states are transforming traditional transportation corridors into modern, multi-use assets.