The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon is a biennial collegiate competition challenging students to design and build full-sized, solar-powered homes. This year, 11 institutions from around the world present unique and sustainable designs that address real-world housing and sustainability challenges.
After many months of planning, designing, and building, the 2017 Solar Decathlon homes are finally complete and will be on display starting today through Oct.15, in Denver. Click through the stories below for a preview of each of them.
During select viewing hours, visitors can tour the Solar Decathlon village free of charge. The event will include a Sustainability Expo, workshops for consumers and professionals, and “education days” for middle school students. After the Oct. 5 Opening Ceremony, a virtual tour with 360-degree views will also be available.
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Solar Decathlon Preview: UMD Integrates Native American Ideals
The ‘reACT’ home is a prototype of sustainable, self-sufficient housing for Native American communities.
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Solar Decathlon Preview: UNLV Blends Mid-Century Style with Sustainability
The 'Sinatra Living' home offers active adults simplicity, comfort, and healthy living.
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Solar Decathlon Preview: MST's Modern Twist on Traditional Farmhouse
'SILO' is a net-zero home that offers all the comforts of traditional farmhouse living.
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Solar Decathlon Preview: Team Netherlands Builds ‘World’s Smartest Lego Set’
‘Selficient’ gives homeowners the building blocks for a custom, sustainable home design.
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Solar Decathlon Preview: Northwestern's Age-in-Place Home Improves Indoor Air Quality
‘Enable’ can withstand Chicago’s harsh climate and filter out toxins.
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Communal Flex Space Makes Urban Living Friendlier
The Swiss Solar Decathlon entry provides a meeting place for city dwellers to socialize, work, and exchange ideas on sustainability.
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Sustainable Home Can Handle Alabama Heat, Humidity, Tornadoes
Team Alabama’s Solar Decathlon entry offers Southern architectural charm and severe weather protection.
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Retirement Pad with Old Florida Style, Sustainable Design
Team Daytona Beach’s Solar Decathlon design for 'Gen X' retirees references the iconic 1930's Hemingway House.
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Stackable, Sustainable Design Meets CA Housing Challenges
UC Berkeley and University of Denver's Solar Decathlon design focuses on rapid, sustainable, and affordable urbanization.
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Water-Efficient CA Home Promotes Community Conservation Efforts
UC Davis’ drought-resilient Solar Decathlon home encourages friendly conservation competition.
