POWER TO THE PEOPLE

The transition in energy production from a centralized model based on finite fossil fuels to a distributed one based on renewable sources is an imperative social and political target that will have a noticeable impact on space and territory. Yet, the current policy paradigm based on liberalization, competition and privatization has proven unsuccessful in implementing this shift to the degree that is deemed necessary, calling for a paradigm shift in energy policy. The shift is accompanied by a proliferation of new types of infrastructure: dense fields of production, arranged without spatial intelligence beyond that of maximum efficiency – Power Parks.

Their lack of spatial intelligence and legibility calls for us as architects to examine energy infrastructure and its impact and agency as not merely a technical but also a social, political, economic, and spatial matter of concern. Using the paradigm shift as the premise for an architectural project on energy infrastructure questions what role the architect can play in order identify and co-opt the systems that govern our everyday life.

Location: Øresund region, Year: 2018-19, Program: Masterplan, Status: Competition