The Solar Decathlon is a competition hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy that takes place every October. For three weeks in October, 20 teams of college students enter the competition to design and create the most appealing, attractive, energy-efficient solar operated house. Investing in solar power is the key component to this competition and the Solar Decathlon does an excellent job in heightening awareness of solar power and energy. There are three phases to the Solar Decathlon: the building phase, moving to the solar village and the competing phase. During the building phase, students are able to put their alternative energy college degrees to work. The hard work that the teams put in is shown off during this phase and determines whether they win or lose. Moving to the solar village phase entails transporting the houses to Washington, D.C. The houses are rebuilt on site at the National Mall. The public can watch the work put in by the teams investing in solar power. During the competing phase the teams receive performance points in 10 separate contests. The homes are also open to the public for touring. The competition is a great way for college and university students pursuing alternative energy college degrees to gain experience in their fields of study. This attention grabbing competition is becoming increasingly internationally recognized as it heightens the public awareness of alternative power and solar energy sources. Students from various disciplines of study then come together and promote unity and energy in this exciting event.

One Response to “What is the Solar Decathlon”

1. 1
   gino panino Says:
   

   great

   August 29th, 2010 at 5:26 pm

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