Affording magnificent views of the Snowdonia National Park, the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) has for nearly half a century now occupied a seven-acre site in a former slate quarry close to Machynlleth. Easily reached by car or bus, and naturally offering free charging for electric vehicles, a visit here may be among the most rewarding and inspiring you could hope to take in Wales. Note also that the name is a little misleading now, as the centre has switched from focusing purely on alternative technologies to all forms of sustainable living.
Learn about wind turbines, and see some in action, from smaller models suitable for a boat battery, to larger ones that could potentially provide green energy for up to 200 homes. There are hands-on exhibits that show how solar energy and composting work, from principles to practice, and a display garden that demonstrates how productive and beneficial to wildlife an ecologically managed suburban garden can be. Nearby, a working organic garden supplies fresh fruit and vegetables for the cafe.
As you wander the site, you’ll see numerous buildings designed to lead the way in sustainability, harnessing the latest in energy conservation and generation technology, using locally sourced materials and traditional construction techniques wherever possible. Community projects and art exhibits abound and if you’re visiting between Easter and October then you must take a ride on the amazing water-balanced railway. It uses the power of gravity to raise and lower carriages up a steep cliff, with incredible panoramas of forests, mountains and valleys all around.
