Premiere of documentary on climate change and renewable energy sources in Peru

A new documentary funded by Energy Futures Lab explores the impact of climate change, and use of renewable energy sources, in rural Peru.

The documentary Winds of Change will see its premiere tomorrow night at a special screening at Imperial College London. The movie, about climate change and renewable energy sources in Peru, was created by two researchers from Imperial College London, with funding from Energy Futures Lab.

When Alex Bak and Tomos Thomas, of the Department of Physics, went to Peru to work with the WindAid Institute they decided to make the most of their time there. The two wanted to capture the changes occurring in the Andes due to climate change and film the impact renewable energy sources are having on rural communities.

“I felt that we should understand how these rural communities are transitioning into the 21st century,” explains Alex “it’s fascinating how one light bulb can change a whole family’s life.”

The two were in Peru putting up wind turbines in remote towns without access to electricity. Inspired by the makers of the award-winning documentary Powering the top of the world, also funded by Energy Futures Lab, they used the camera to share what they experienced.

“Peru is interesting because people are becoming more affluent and gaining access to conveniences like electricity and refrigerators for the first time and using more resources.” says Tomos “At the same time they are suffering from climate change, pollution and water shortages. It’s a microcosm of a huge global challenge, how to achieve prosperity without damaging the environment.”

Neither Alex nor Tomos had much experience filming or editing a documentary but the team they put together provided the support they needed. Filmed over one month, the 20 minute documentary has breath-taking scenery, interviews with local people and a serious message. “We hope the film gives an insight into the places affected by climate change,” says Alex “and shows how decentralised renewable energy can facilitate education and help people understand the challenges they are facing.”

Winds of Change will be screened tomorrow 19 March at 18:00 in room 408 in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, building 16 on the campus map.

More details and registration can be found on the Energy Futures Lab website.