At Baglio San Michele, energy autonomy is conceived as a natural extension of food autonomy. It consists of sober solutions, easily repairable and perfectly integrated into the historic context of the farmhouse and the Iblean landscape.
Founding Principles
- • Absolute respect for the aesthetics and historic heritage
- • Sobriety and Slow Living as the first step towards autonomy
- • Closing water and energy cycles within the property
- • Appropriate, low-tech technologies that can be repaired locally
- • Valorization of traditional solutions (historic cisterns, fireplaces, wood management)
Methods and Concrete Solutions
The solutions adopted are sober and respectful of the context: photovoltaic panels completely concealed, water pumping powered by solar energy, water purification systems for food use, traditional heating with fireplaces and wood stoves. No wind turbines are planned out of respect for the landscape and the silence of the Iblean territory.
Progressive Implementation by Phases
Phase 1 (2026–2028) – Autonomy of the Historic Baglio
In the restored fortified farmhouse, basic energy and water autonomy is implemented for the first 14 apartments and common spaces, with pumping systems, water purification, traditional heating, and completely invisible photovoltaic systems.
Phase 2 (post-2028) – Autonomy of the Entire Property
With the construction of the 20 farmhouses, autonomy is completed for the entire community. The new dwellings are equipped with discreet energy systems connected to a community microgrid.
Training and Practical Courses
The Baglio organizes courses open to residents and candidates:
- • Management and maintenance of pumping systems and historic cisterns
- • Water purification for food use with appropriate techniques
- • Sustainable management of firewood and operation of traditional fireplaces
- • Discreet integration of solar energy in historic and rural contexts
- • Passive energy efficiency of buildings
The energy autonomy of Baglio San Michele is discreet, traditional at its core, and innovative in substance. It does not alter the beauty of the farmhouse and the landscape, but offers families real water and energy independence, in harmony with faith, Sicilian culture, and responsibility towards future generations.