Students Harness Solar Power to Run Homes

Solar Decathlon Features The Latest In Energy Efficiency And Renewable Energy Technologies

October 2005 (Medialink) -- As fuel prices rise and smarter energy choices become a hot topic, solar energy is emerging as an attractive energy option. Now, imagine living in a home where everything from the lights to the hot water and air conditioning is powered by the sun. College teams from around the world are making that a reality - transforming the National Mall in Washington D.C. today into a village of solar-powered homes.

Eighteen collegiate teams from the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and Spain are participating in the 2005 Solar Decathlon. During the past two years, each team has designed and built its own zero-energy, solar-powered home. These fully-functional houses showcase the latest in energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies.

The opening ceremony for the competition is October 6, and the solar village will be open to the public Oct. 7 until Oct. 16. The Solar Decathlon winner - based on the team that best blends aesthetics and modern conveniences with maximum energy production and optimal efficiency - will be announced on Oct. 14.

The 2005 Solar Decathlon is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in partnership with its National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the American Institute of Architects, the National Association of Homebuilders, BP, the DIY Network, and Sprint Nextel. For more information, visit www.solardecathlon.org to see images of the houses and learn more about the event.

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Listen to comments from Doug Faulkner, Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, U.S. Department of Energy.




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