Output details

Active Energy

Active Energy is a conceptual arts-led research project that has used citizen-led innovation involving older people to create a prototype tidal turbine for the River Thames. This has led to the exploration and piloting of new approaches to community involvement encompassing cross-generational and cross-cultural learning and exchange involving groups in the UK and US, as well as new approaches to disseminating issue on the generation of sustainable energy. In October 2013 the tidal turbine that has resulted from design development with the Geezers was mounted on a Thames barge located in a prominent position opposite the Houses of Parliament.

The main method of engagement with participants has been through workshops with members of the Geezers Club at AgeUK. Engineers were enlisted to help develop, test and implement the Geezers’ idea of enabling the Thames to power London’s riverside communities. A further opportunity arose to test this method of working with older people through a residency in Pittsburgh PA.

This project has already led to further research: A successful bid has been made to the Western Riverside Environmental Fund (WREF) to create a floating reed bed to support and monitor biodiversity on the River Thames.

The work in development has been exhibited at AgeUK, Bow, London, 2010, ‘Not Quite Yet ‘group exhibition at SPACE Studios, London, 2008, Feminist and…, group exhibition at Mattress Factory Pittsburgh PA, 2013.

The project has received the following funding:

- Awards for All, Big Lottery: workshops with Geezers, £10,000, 2012.

- Mattress Factory: Pittsburgh commission and residency, $1000, 2012.

- SPACE Studios: Original commission, £5625, 2009.

- SPACE Studios: Commission for ‘The Not Quite Yet’ exhibition £4250, 2007.

The output is presented via portfolio, which should be viewed in order to gain a proper understanding of the research.