Renewable energy sources for rural architecture in fragile landscapes

One of the main problems that can be addressed re-using and renovating the rural architecture in fragile landscape, is the research of a difficult balancing between conflicting demands. The architectural and landscape values, to be preserved and enhanced, may become a sort of obstacle to reach some kind of comfort (at least for heat and electricity) requested from new users. Insertion of new 'stand-alone' systems may cause modification not only on the perception of the landscape, but also on the physical maintenance of existing materials and structures and conservation of spaces. With specific reference to this topic, the paper deals with problems, reflections and solutions found to give new life to abandoned small settlements included in the National park of Cinque Terre, in eastern Liguria, which is also listed as UNESCO site.