Zero carbon speed cameras installed at roadworks

Temporary speed cameras at roadworks that do not need to be connected to the power grid or use diesel generators are now being supplied by traffic enforcement specialist Jenoptik.  The system – iTASCAR - uses renewable and zero carbon power only, so no CO2 is emitted on site. This is delivered through a combination of wind, solar and hydrogen power which allows schemes to be set up anywhere, even if there is no mains power and where air quality is particularly important, said Jenoptik.

The firm said it has delivered 500 Temporary Automated Speed Cameras At Roadworks (TASCAR) schemes in the past 20 years. These use its SPECS average speed cameras and VECTOR infra-red lighting system to enforce speed limits to keep drivers safe and traffic flowing.

The unit’s VECTOR camera and the VECTOR infra-red lights, means that iTASCAR is only activated when the camera’s shutter is used, “rather than flooding the scene with light all the time”, said Jenoptik.  “This reduced power draw means the system can be fully operational even through winter, 24/7, where other renewable energy-powered systems only work during daylight and fair weather.”

Also, air quality monitoring sensors are mounted to the camera columns to provide 24/7 monitoring throughout the roadworks site. Jenoptik said: “This not only allows the contractors and highway authority to understand the prevailing air quality conditions, but provides data that can aid intelligent decisions around certain construction activities – for example where particulates might be produced during construction, minimising the impact on the local environment.”

The new system has been used at a number of UK sites, including the A11 Concrete Roads Replacement scheme, where power was not easily available and air quality was of particular importance, said Jenoptik.