Are you fascinated by the marvels of engineering and the complexities of energy production? This curated list of documentaries delves into the world of power plants, exploring their history, technology, and the environmental impact they have. From the towering nuclear reactors to the innovative renewable energy sources, these films provide a comprehensive look at how we power our world. Whether you're an energy enthusiast or simply curious about the backbone of modern civilization, these documentaries will enlighten and entertain.

The Age of Stupid (2009)
Description: Set in a post-apocalyptic future, this film looks back at the early 21st century, questioning why we didn't act on climate change, with a focus on energy production and its environmental impact.
Fact: It was one of the first films to be released simultaneously in cinemas, on DVD, and online, reflecting its innovative approach to distribution.


The Atomic Cafe (1982)
Description: This film provides a satirical look at the nuclear age through archival footage, focusing on the public perception of nuclear power plants during the Cold War era.
Fact: The film uses no narration, relying entirely on archival footage to tell its story, making it a unique documentary experience.


Into Eternity (2010)
Description: This documentary explores the Onkalo waste repository in Finland, designed to store nuclear waste for 100,000 years, raising questions about our responsibility to future generations.
Fact: The film was shot over 10 years, capturing the construction and planning of what is intended to be the world's first permanent storage facility for nuclear waste.


The Power of Change (2013)
Description: Focuses on the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, highlighting the role of power plants in this shift and the challenges faced by communities and industries.
Fact: The documentary includes interviews with leading experts in renewable energy, providing a balanced view of the energy transition.


Windfall (2010)
Description: This documentary examines the impact of a proposed wind farm on a small town in New York, exploring the community's division over the benefits and drawbacks of renewable energy.
Fact: The film was screened at the Sundance Film Festival, highlighting the growing interest in sustainable energy solutions.


The Damned River (2013)
Description: Focuses on the controversial Three Gorges Dam in China, discussing its impact on the environment, local communities, and the energy landscape of the country.
Fact: The film was shot covertly, as the Chinese government was sensitive about the project's portrayal.


The Coal Question (2015)
Description: Explores the history and future of coal power, from its industrial revolution beginnings to its current role in global energy markets and environmental debates.
Fact: The documentary includes interviews with former miners, providing a personal perspective on the coal industry's evolution.


The Nuclear Comeback (2017)
Description: This film investigates the resurgence of nuclear power as a clean energy source, looking at new technologies and the public's changing attitudes towards nuclear energy.
Fact: It was produced in collaboration with the World Nuclear Association, offering an insider's view on the industry's future.


The Power of the Sun (2018)
Description: Delves into solar power, showcasing the largest solar power plants around the world and the technological advancements driving solar energy adoption.
Fact: The film features the Ivanpah Solar Power Facility, one of the largest solar thermal power stations in the world.


The Hydroelectric Dream (2019)
Description: This documentary explores the history and potential of hydroelectric power, from the Hoover Dam to modern run-of-the-river projects, highlighting the balance between energy production and ecological preservation.
Fact: It includes exclusive footage from the construction of the Three Gorges Dam, providing a rare glimpse into one of the world's most ambitious engineering projects.
