Redesigning Madeira

Taking advantage of the unique context provided by Madeira, this project will use a speculative design approach to explore new energy infrastructure and interaction scenarios with the aim of moving beyond the limitations of smart grid initiatives. Speculative design can facilitate a re-scripting of rules and constraints that determine energy policy and behaviour. For example, the radial grid system that is dominant across Europe dictates everything energy-related in highly complex ways: from the development of renewable energy generation methods to the design and function of electrical products. ​By thinking beyond the limits of established infrastructure this project will transform Madeira into a living laboratory for multi-scale energy experiments. Madeira’s landscape and resources afford numerous opportunities for the creation of bespoke generation and storage schemes and new product interactions, with the goal of facilitating a more holistic and sustainable relationship with energy.