Trend From passive buildings to energy-producing cities through distributed microgeneration

Summary

The report expects future cities not just to consume electricity but to produce it through their architecture, mobility and daily life. Distributed microgeneration makes this possible, with small devices generating power close to where it is used, reducing dependence on large infrastructure and transmission losses while boosting resilience. Floor tiles that turn footsteps into electricity and speed bumps that generate current as cars pass produce little per unit, yet can power lighting or signage in busy places such as stations, schools or roads and ease the load on the grid. Bidirectional technology that lets electric vehicles return power to the grid at peak demand is another promising path. As photovoltaic glass able to capture ultraviolet and infrared radiation advances, entire facades could help buildings become self-sufficient. The report pictures cities shifting from passive consumers to living energy organisms that can supply themselves.