A report in the Austin American-Statesman notes that the only drawback to the new meters so far has been some confusion among area drivers about how they work. The meters are said to issue receipts that are then placed on cars as proof of payment.
According to the newspaper, the solar-powered parking meters were installed in the city starting on July 22 and a total of 500 are expected to be in place as of November.
Also, the city reportedly had "ambassadors" in some areas that help drivers understand how the meters work, particularly when it comes to the receipts that the meters print out.
Elsewhere, a report from FOX-7 in Austin says that the solar powered pay stations are located every few parking spots, as opposed to traditional meters that are located next to every space.
A number of other cities around the country have been putting solar power to work in the form of trash-compacting barrels.
