Free Energy
Giving Form to Local Choices in Energy Use



‘Free Energy’ consists of conceptual design examples based on experimental user methods to expose alternative expressions and choices with respect to energy use in everyday life. Two prototypes – the ‘Energy Tap’ and ‘Kinetic Door’ have been developed to explore relations of design to energy perceptions and changing behaviors. The ‘Energy Tap’ is a self-sustaining energy outlet for open use – it may be inserted into any space, and cranked to generate energy to power an electric or electronic appliance to facilitate any sort of activity. The ‘Kinetic Door’ intervenes into a common energy choice in Sweden, augmenting existing revolving doors in order to reward door-pushers for making an extra energy-friendly effort.


alternative placement scenarios for the Energy Tap


using the Energy Tap

Project Team: Anders Ernevi, Margot Jacobs, Ulrika Löfgren, Sara Danielsson, HDK (School of Design and Crafts at Göteborg University)