Solar Power for All: Exploring the Potential of Solar Energy in Broadway East, Baltimore

Abstract

This thesis investigates how landscape architects can design multifunctional solar energy landscapes (MSELs) to support energy justice, ecological restoration, and community revitalization in Broadway East, Baltimore. Focusing on three vacant sites, the thesis evaluates their potential to support agrivoltaics, ecovoltaics, and solar parking canopies. Proposed designs integrate solar infrastructure with landscape elements such as shade trees, pollinator meadows, rain gardens, and public gathering spaces to improve environmental performance and neighborhood livability. Grounded in spatial analysis and site-specific design, the thesis demonstrates how solar infrastructure can be adapted to local social and ecological conditions, transforming underutilized land into multifunctional community assets. This work highlights the critical role of landscape architects in shaping energy transitions that are not only technically efficient, but also equitable, resilient, and responsive to place.