Here’s another reason to love the game of soccer (football). In Lagos, Nigeria, a solar-powered football pitch which also uses kinetic energy generated by players running around to help power streetlights and other low voltage systems. While the game being played on the field may be interesting, the technology below the turf is what makes this pitch extraordinary. Underneath the turf are a hundred pitch “titles” designed by UK startup Pavegen that can harness energy from the movement of players. The kinetic energy, combined with power generated from solar panels can power streetlights in the community for up to 24 hours. The idea is brilliant, and represents new possibilities for placing these Pavegen tiles in areas with high foot traffic areas such as schools, sports centers, and markets to produce energy for communities in need. People are always going to keep moving, so we might as well harness their energy for the greater good.