In the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon, collegiate teams design and build energy-efficient houses powered by the sun. These teams spend almost two years creating houses to compete in the 10 contests of the Solar Decathlon. The winning team produces a house that:

• Is affordable, attractive, and easy to live in

• Maintains comfortable and healthy indoor environmental conditions

• Supplies energy to household appliances for cooking, cleaning, and entertainment

• Provides adequate hot water

• Produces as much or more energy than it consumes.

Learn more about the Solar Decathlon:

• Rules

• Contests.

Or find out how your team can apply for the next Solar Decathlon.