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The Future Architecture of Renewable Power

When many people think of renewable energy or the option of wind, hydro, or solar installation on their personal property they think of the Hoover Dam, or massive windmills dotting the horizon, or huge blisteringly hot solar panels covering the ground as far as eye can see. While there certainly are locations like these that have as little redeeming aesthetic quality as any other coal or nuclear plant, there are exciting developments in the future that promise to help make renewable energy generation look every bit as good as it is for the environment, and for humanity.

As far as hydro power is concerned, existing dams actually create valuable sporting lakes and habitats for recreational fishing of large catches. These dams also often serve as tourist spots and landmarks. New dams are sure to continue this tradition though there are concerns regarding the area these dams put underwater.

Other hydro options include large tidal systems that can be placed along water breaks or channels, using the natural pounding of the waves and turning of the sea to generate energy with minimal impact on the area in which they are installed.

Solar power has particularly exciting developments in store, including the possibility of creating paint with photovoltaic properties. This paint, applied to large flat surfaces, would work like a giant irregular solar panel, capturing energy. Other theoretical advances involve blacktop, finding a durable photovoltaic surface that could soak up all of the energy you can feel warming the air outside of a grocery store. These low impact solutions are coming, and they are exciting to consider.