Going green requires a huge commitment of space as well as financial resources. Designing a solar power facility that doesn't "overpower" the surrounding landscape was accomplished by Sanyo.
The aesthetically-pleasing green energy project is called the Solar Ark and is located close to the geographical center of Japan. It's covered in 5,000 solar panels which are capable of generating more than 500,000 kilowatt hours of energy.
From the front, the ark is a pleasing curved design that can withstand strong typhoons and earthquakes.
If you're making your way to the area, check out the Ark View Cafe.
"On the tables,you'll notice prompts to get you thinking about everyday environmental issues. Why not sit down, relax and enjoy a conversation that's a little out of the ordinary? Or, if you're feeling a little more energetic, you can climb up the grassy hill onto the roof of the cafe and have a view of the 315m Solar Ark all to yourself," Sanyo's site suggests.
They offer coffee, tea, ice cream and other goodies.
Solar Power With Panache
Sanyo Solar Ark
Trend Themes
1. Green Energy Architecture - Designing energy facilities that have a visually pleasing design and blend in with the surrounding landscape creates new opportunities for green energy adoption.
2. Eco-tourism Attractions - Creating eco-tourism destinations that showcase green energy initiatives can attract visitors and raise awareness about environmental issues.
3. Sustainable Cafe Concepts - Integrating environmental consciousness into the concept of food establishments, such as prompt cards and menus, offers opportunities for sustainability-minded entrepreneurs.
Industry Implications
1. Solar Energy - Developing solar energy technologies and infrastructure that have a low impact on the environment creates opportunities for innovative designs and scalable projects.
2. Tourism - Incorporating eco-tourism strategies into the travel industry can create new markets and revenue streams for green energy projects and initiatives.
3. Food and Beverage - Integrating sustainable practices into food and beverage concepts and operations can capture a growing market of environmentally-conscious consumers.