Assess the technical applicability of piezoelectric floor tile energy harvesting as a renewable energy source for public buildings in Sri Lanka

Abstract

With rising energy demands and diminishing fossil fuel resources, there is an urgent need for sustainable and alternative energy solutions, especially in developing countries like Sri Lanka. High-traffic public buildings present an untapped opportunity to harness human kinetic energy through piezoelectric floor tiles, offering a supplementary renewable energy source. Piezoelectric energy harvesting systems convert mechanical pressure into electrical energy, and when integrated into pedestrian zones of public spaces, they can contribute to localized energy needs. However, challenges such as low energy conversion efficiency, system durability, maintenance concerns, and limited public awareness hinder their widespread adoption. Addressing these concerns, this research evaluates the technological feasibility of implementing piezoelectric floor tiles in Sri Lanka public buildings, using the Colombo Fort Railway station as a case study. Employing a mixed-method approach, including energy output estimations, performance simulations, and stakeholder surveys. The study assessed the potential of piezoelectric flooring to contribute to the daily energy demands of low-power appliances in high-traffic public spaces. The analysis estimates that approximately 83Wh/day could be generated from 200,000 pedestrian footsteps, which is sufficient to power low-consumption devices such as LED, CCTV cameras or smart panels. Comparative analysis reveals piezoelectric floor tiles’ unique advantage for indoor applications, maintaining consistent output regardless of sunlight conditions. Environmental assessments demonstrate significant reductions in indirect carbon emissions compared to conventional power generation methods. When combined with other renewable energy sources like solar power, this technology shows great potential as an additional solution, even though it is insufficient as a stand-alone energy source. The stakeholder analysis also revealed a gap in awareness, emphasizing the importance of education and engagement initiatives to support future adoption. As a conclusion, the study high lights the technical viability of piezoelectric floor tiles as a supplementary renewable source for Sri Lankan public infrastructure and recommends pilot projects and further research and development to test feasibility and performance. The finding con tributes to the foundational knowledge and policymaking efforts required to support innovative energy solutions like piezoelectric energy harvesting in the Sri Lanka context.