D.C. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and private-sector partners BP Solar and the American Institute of Architects. For eight days in 2002, student teams will compete to capture, convert, store, and use enough solar energy to power our modern lifestyle. Solar Decathletes will be required to provide all the energy for an entire household, including a home-based business and the transportation needs of the household and business. During the event, only the solar energy available within the perimeter of each house may be used to generate the power needed to compete in the ten Solar Decathlon contests. The Solar Decathlon will be a living demonstration laboratory for consumers.
Communication is a key part of the competition.
Each team will have a Web site, provide house tours, and create print materials that explain the design, engineering, and operation of their house as well as the products and technologies being used in the house. Research and development endeavors in energy efficiency and solar energy technologies have improved our lives. The Solar Decathlon will not only have an immediate affect on consumers by educating them about solar energy and energy-efficient products, but it will affect the future as well. The competition will provide stimulus to the next generation of researchers, architects, engineers, and builders as they prepare to begin their careers.