Motivation: Solar Decathlon

When: Oct. 12 - 20, 2007
Where: National Mall, Washington, D.C.
Tours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekends, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays, except Wednesday, Oct. 17, when homes are closed for competition purposes.

Twenty collegiate teams from around the globe have been selected to participate in an unparalleled solar competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy. The interdisciplinary teams are challenged to design, build, and operate the most attractive and energy-efficient solar-powered home.

This fall, Solar Decathlon teams from 13 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, Spain, and Germany will transport their solar homes from their respective campuses to the National Mall in Washington, D.C., where they will form a “solar village.” Teams are judged in 10 contests to determine an overall winner.

Using only the sun's energy, teams must generate enough electricity to run a modern household. With a strong focus on energy conservation, it is essential for students to consider using energy efficient systems, products, and appliances in their solar homes.