While the 2012 Olympic Games haven't even finished yet, planning for the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has already begun. And, one designer has dreams of taking solar power to new heights.

According to Digital Trends, Zurich-based RAFAA Architecture & Design wants to design an energy-generating waterfall skyscraper (shown above), that will not only power the Olympic Village, but also the city of Rio.

"It is less about an expressive, iconic architectural form; rather, it is a return to content and actual, real challenges for the imminent post-oil-era," the firm says on their website. "This project represents a message of a society facing the future ... Our project, standing in the tradition of 'a building/city as a machine,' shall provide energy both to the city of Rio de Janeiro and its citizens while using natural resources."

Looking for some adventure with your ecotourism? The structure includes a bungee platform at level 90. Moreover, on special occasions water will be pumped over the sides to create an actual waterfall.

Filed under: Festivals and Events, Stories, South America, Brazil, Ecotourism, News