Solar Decathlon 2009

The Solar Decathlon is a biannual, international competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy to inspire college-level students to design, build, and operate an entirely solar-powered home. Taking place on the National Mall in Washington D.C., during September 2009, all products must be commercially available and the public is always invited to explore the potential of solar energy, energy efficiency, and cutting-edge design.

Past Decathlons in 2002, 2005, and 2007 have attracted the attention of hundreds of thousands of visitors to the event. In the 2007 competition, the exposure throughout the world spans over 650 million and it is predicted to reach 1 billion for the 2009 event. Through its visibility and success, the Decathlon is helping to elevate solar energy in the eyes of students and the public, and has resulted in many new education and research initiatives at participating universities.

10 Contests - One a Winner!

# 1: Architecture

# 2: Market Viability

# 3: Engineering

# 4: Lighting Design

# 5: Communications

# 6: Comfort Zone

# 7: Hot Water

# 8: Appliances

# 9: Home Entertainment

# 10: Net-Metering