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Energy Revolution demonstrates how we can actively respond to the climate crisis by transforming our use of energy in the built environment. The exhibition highlights the ways individuals, corporations and city leaders can work toward a carbon-free future.

Urbanized areas make up less than 2% of Earth’s landmass, but account for 78% of energy consumption and 60% of greenhouse gas emissions. Sprawling development, inefficient buildings and car dependency all exacerbate global warming. Yet, because urban cores are densely populated, they have the potential to be far more energy efficient than outlying areas. As innovation powerhouses, cities must be global leaders to halt climate change. Learn how architects, engineers, urban planners, product manufacturers and everyday citizens are already shaping the next generation of cities.

Smart approaches to design and technologies like kinetic energy capture and high-performance facades are making net-zero buildings a reality, and the gravitation to renewable sources like wind and solar coupled with electrification is enabling a shift away from fossil fuels. Meanwhile, personal choices like adopting cleaner modes of transportation, planting gardens instead of lawns and installing modern electric appliances can help us live better with less energy.

Time is our scarcest resource. But beyond the dire warnings, this exhibition features inspiring case studies of individuals, places and communities innovating toward a more sustainable future.

Energy Revolution is on view April 9, 2022—January 10, 2023.


Curation 

Energy Revolution is co-curated by Doug Farr, FAIA and the CAC. Exhibition design is by Sage Creative Group.

This exhibition is made possible by generous support provided by:

Presenting Sponsors

Illinois Science and Energy Innovation Foundation ComEd

Additional support also provided by

"Graham Power Construction

BuiltWorlds

In-kind support also provided by

Alpen

Rothoblaas

Cascadia Clips

Johns Manville

Sterling

Rieder and Centerline Group USA

Smartlam