Solar Democracy
Marjan van Aubel |
TEDxAmsterdamWomen
• December 2018
"In order to grow adaptation and acceptation of solar energy, solar cells needs to become accessible. Using the power of Design, solar cells can be integrated much more seamlessly into our environment. Solar cells no longer have to function as an add-on technology, where we only focus on efficiency and cost, but can be a beautiful natural part of our surrounding.
The sun provides us infinite amounts of energy. Solar Designer Marjan van Aubel sees every surface as an opportunity to harvest energy. In her work she searches for extreme efficiency: she adds double functions to objects and puts them to work. A table is not only a table anymore but also becomes an energy source. She works with solar cells that use the property of colour to turn sunlight into electricity, mimicking the process of photosynthesis. Her aim is to make solar technology accessible and desirable; generating electricity at the place you directly need it. From stained glass solar windows to greenhouses made of transparante solar cells she seeks for ways to integrate solar panels on every scale.
The energy transition needs to come from different angles, perspectives and industries to make this change happen. By collaborating on different levels and scales. And by turning surfaces and everyday objects into independent power sources , solar cells can be applied into our environment. Starting small and locally, and through design and aesthetic integration, solar technology will come closer to people and a natural part of our every day life"