We travelled here on Wednesday to attend the 2009 Solar Decathlon. After three days on mall, we are cold and wet, but more excited than ever to submit our proposal and participate in this incredible event. The commitment of the teams, quality of the designs, and the interests displayed by the public are truly inspiring.
While we have yet to see the sun, 15 of the teams were net-zero and lineups to see the houses have been as long as an hour. Team Germany from the Technische Universitat Darmstadt won the competition on Friday for the second year in a row with their Sur-plus home. Illinois' Gable Home came second, and featured a passive solar design; a huge advantage during this un-seasonal weather. Team California came third for the second year in a row with their Refract House design, winning both the Architecture and Market Viability competitions.
Canada had an excellent showing at this decathlon. Team Ontario/BC finished fourth with North House and Team Alberta sixth with SolAbode, an indication of the dedication of both student teams and Canada's commitment and leadership in the development of a sustainable future.
Congratulations to all teams!
Friday Morning at the National Mall. The top three placing houses: Refract House (left), Gable House (right) and Sur-plus home (distant right) are all visible as well as Minnesota's Icon House.
