Solar powered energy and eco-efficiency in a UNESCO site. Criteria and recommendations for the National Park of Cinque Terre, Italy

The reduction of energy consumption and of polluting emissions as well as the improving of residential standards (potentially contrasting outlooks) are more and more frequently involving the architecturally created environment and landscapes of considerable renown - initially excluded from obligatory compliance with existing regulations. Conflicts tend to increase in such circumstances, since technical knowhow must aim at reconciling with objectives of a more widely cultural nature (safeguarding of and respect for the environment, authenticity of material and identification of built heritage). The experience of the research presented refers to a particularly sensitive site, placed under the protection of the state and interested international agencies. It is among the most representative of the whole of Italy: The National Park and UNESCO site of the Cinque Terre, Porto Venere and the archipelago of the islands Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto in the extreme east of Region Liguria. The research, both methodological and operative, offers elements useful to the understanding and solution of issues relating to the recovery of simple rural buildings and the improvement of thermal performance and energy supply, especially on sites isolated from network installations. Particular in-depth study is dedicated to 1) identification of criteria to better integrate solar technologies for energy production in rural buildings, for end consumer utilization (owners and technicians), as well as 2) local government and safeguarding agencies called upon to evaluate acceptability.