Power system design is best viewed as part of an integrated infrastructure design. Conservation, energy, water, food production, building design and transportation can be integrated to build cost-effective, ultra-efficient energy systems. This is called the Integrated System Approach. The first priority is energy conservation, which includes ecological architecture, super-insulation, efficient equipment and the attitudes of residents.
Transportation is one of the most difficult areas to reduce the carbon footprint. We are enormously accustomed to the effectiveness of fossil fuels to provide our mobile energy. For the eco-designer, there are some options:
- Minimize the need for transportation within the local community and bioregion. Design local activities and strengthen local contacts.
- Encourage cycling – perhaps electric bikes for longer trips.
- If biofuel crops are locally available, consider pressing appropriate oils, such as rapeseed or sunflower.
- Village buses and shared cars.
- Integrate new technologies as they become more mature: e.g., electric, compressed air, and hydrogen technologies.