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A crazy idea, a small step, a new vision, a new invention. That was the easiest way to describe the invention of POWERLeap. For the uninitiated, POWERLeap is a unique flooring system that taps the energy released by your body when you step on it and generates electricity.� It was invented by Elizabeth Redmond, a 23 year old student at University of Michigan’s School of Art and Design.� It started out as a small project for her senior thesis but it turned out to be much bigger idea than she could imagine. POWERLeap is based on a scientific phenomenon called piezoelectricity. In simple words, piezoelectricity is generation of electricity by some substances like crystals and certain ceramics while encountering mechanical stress (and you only thought your boss was capable of it!!).

POWERLeap if funded by keen investors is a product which has the potential to put the eco-drive on a fast track. With endless applications of a simple technology, we can breathe a sigh of relief in all matters pertaining to electricity generation.� With natural resources depleting faster than the speed of light, maybe this was the answer we were seeking for. If you ask me, Elizabeth Redmond deserves a nobel prize for such a noble invention. On second thoughts, a better planet is the best prize.

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