What is Pavegen?
Pavegen is the world leader in harvesting energy and data from footsteps. This innovative technology converts footfall into off-grid power and valuable data, creating interactive smart tiles that literally bring spaces to life. Whether it’s permanent installations or experiential activations, Pavegen’s system powers off-grid applications like games, lighting, and environmental monitoring. Each step on a Pavegen walkway generates between 2 and 4 joules of electrical energy—or up to 7 watts of power for the duration of the footstep. It’s a clever way to turn everyday movement into something meaningful and sustainable.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Here’s why Pavegen stands out:
- £1.3 million raised through crowdfunding, with over 1100 investors backing the project.
- Installed in 37 countries, with 300+ projects completed worldwide.
- Over 1 billion footsteps harvested and counting.
- Recent collaborations include Transport for London and New West End Company to create the world’s first smart street.
- Partnered with Google to build the world’s largest energy and data harvesting array in Berlin.
- Installed at high-profile locations like The Mercury shopping mall and Abu Dhabi airport.
- The V3 model won the 2017 Smart Cities Interactive Innovation award at South by Southwest and the 2018 UK PropTech award for social impact.
Innovative Technology Behind Pavegen
Pavegen’s technology is all about harnessing kinetic energy from footsteps and turning it into usable power. The classic Pavegen tile, showcased at Bishopsgate in London, captures kinetic energy with every step. Then there’s the new Solar+ model, which combines hybrid solar and kinetic energy technology to generate power 24/7. And for a bit of flair, the Walk to Light flooring integrates built-in lighting powered 100% by footsteps. It’s not just energy generation—it’s creating an engaging experience that connects people to their environment in a fresh, interactive way.
Engaging Smart Cities and Brand Activations
Pavegen’s smart tiles are perfect for smart cities and buildings, transforming passive foot traffic into active engagement. They’re also a hit for brand activations and events, where capturing attention and driving footfall is key. Imagine a busy urban plaza or a bustling event space where every step taken powers lights, games, or displays—turning everyday movement into a dynamic story. It’s about creating powerful spaces where people feel part of something bigger, energized by their own footsteps.
Global Reach and Expanding Impact
With installations spanning 37 countries and over 300 projects, Pavegen’s impact is truly global. From London’s smart streets to Berlin’s massive energy arrays, the technology is scaling fast. The company is rapidly expanding its team and operations, seeking new industry and distribution partners to bring this kinetic energy revolution to even more places. It’s a movement that’s gaining serious momentum, blending sustainability, technology, and human interaction in a way that’s both practical and inspiring.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – by generating off-grid renewable energy from footsteps.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through smart city integrations and urban energy solutions.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by promoting energy efficiency and innovative resource use.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – reducing reliance on fossil fuels with clean kinetic and solar energy.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – advancing smart infrastructure with cutting-edge technology.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Footstep Energy
Pavegen is more than just a technology—it’s a new way to think about energy, engagement, and urban living. The fusion of kinetic and solar power in the Solar+ model points to a future where energy generation is seamless and integrated into everyday life. As cities grow smarter and sustainability becomes a priority, Pavegen’s interactive tiles offer a unique solution that’s both functional and fun. The journey from footsteps to power is just getting started… and it’s stepping up to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s world.
