What the name does not completely imply is that to win the home must also be the most attractive, effective, and energy-efficient solar-powered house.

The second part of The Solar Decathlon is that the public is invited to view the homes and learn about the power of solar. The event takes place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This competition is no fly-by-night operation either. Team proposals requests for the decathlon are released during the previous decathlon and teams have about two years to prepare. For instance RFPs were released at this (2007) decathlon and have to be turned in by December 7th and the next decathlon takes place in 2009. So it’s a big deal.

The University of Colorado took home the trophy two times over; winning in 2002 and 2005 but not this year.

The winners of the 2007 Solar Decathlon were…

First place: Technische Universität Darmstadt

Technische Universität Darmstadt from Germany scored big all over with the judges saying that their desig, “Pushed the envelope on all levels.” They scored as high as possible on innovation, gained props from the lighting jury for how it twinkled at night (really it looks great at night — their website’s down for some reason but they have some beautiful nighttime photos so I’d visit). They were also one of seven teams to score a perfect 100 points for energy balance. Inhabitat actually had one of the best posts on the winning house so visit them to learn more.

Second Place: University of Maryland

Props, props, and more props to Maryland…

“Maryland won the Communications contest and was second in Architecture, Market Viability, and Lighting, The Communications Jury praised their excellent Web site and house tour. The Architecture Jury said the house definitely belonged in the top tier. The Lighting and Market Viability juries also had high praise. They were one of seven teams to score a perfect 100 points in the Energy Balance contest.”

Third Place: Santa Clara University

(The kitchen almost complete; with bamboo cabinets and recycled ceramic tiles!)

This team was one of just five teams to score a perfect 100 points in the Hot Water contest and one of seven teams to score a perfect 100 points in the Energy Balance contest. Their goal was functionality, elegance, and innovation which clearly they achieved — as far as exterior visuals I’d say this team did a spectacular job. They had cool extras like insulation made of blue jeans and even a good story for the grandkids as they almost didn’t make it to the Solar Decathlon. One of their transport trucks broke an axle and delayed them by three days. Obviously they made it in time to place.

These were the winning teams but really all the teams are winners. This event is a huge deal and really showcases what solar can accomplish. In terms of having a pure offbeat nature my favorites were:

University of Colorado at Boulder

University of Missouri – Rolla

Learn more about the purpose of the Solar Decathlon.

[Exterior photos by Jim Tetro, Solar Decathlon]

Post from: Blisstree

The Solar Decathlon Homes

I felt that the show didn’t cover too much in terms of new green ideas per say. There were very few ideas discussed that were new to me, and probably fewer that would be new to the average green builder. What was cool and unique about this show is they highlighted the stylistic trends going on in green decorating. In terms of enticing folks to go green the show packed in a wallop of tips.

Hemp countertops, reclaimed wood and recycled furniture, low VOC paint, sunflower seed boarding, tree branches as curtain rods, and a shower that I was seriously drooling over. I’ve been thinking about this shower all day and I’ve come to the conclusion that before I die I will have one. It was a river rock shower — which many of us have seen before.

Here’s a picture of typical river rocks.

But the folks who built this particular green home had found greens and clear blues and just an overall stunning array of colored stones. Plus they had a great light slate colored grout. I tried in vein to find a picture of this shower to post — but no luck. If anyone knows of a source it’d be cool to let me know.

Another key point the show pointed out was that you have many choices when it comes to the style of green home you might choose.

Here’s one, and…

Here’s another; worried about rain anyone?

I like this one. This house is very cool. It makes up just one house in a neighborhood called Armory Park del Sol in Tucson. After my three year (or so) stint in New Mexico’s blazing summer conditions, I’m the last person to suggest you pack it up and move to the desert. But this neighborhood is so neat. The website gives some information about their homes:

“The solar features of our homes include photovoltaic electric power generating systems and solar water heaters with on-demand water heater backup systems.”

Plus just moving in, makes you eligible for Tuscon Electric Sun Share rebates and tax credits.

They also offer zero energy homes:

“Zero Energy Homes combine energy-efficient construction, equipment, lighting and appliances with commercially available renewable energy systems to provide homeowners with annual net-zero energy consumption.

With its reduced energy needs and solar energy systems, a Zero Energy Home (ZEH) can return as much energy as it takes from the utility company on an annual basis.”

Here’s another view of the neighborhood:

Or you could plunk down a terrifying amount of green to live in these New York located eco friendly condo digs, at the The Visionaire.

The Visionaire website is gorgeous — go take a look. But it does look pricey.

All in all, Red, Hot, and Green did get me thinking about what kind of green style I like and to what level I’d take green in my own home. Didn’t see it? No problem, it’ll be on again on July 1 at 5pm ET/PT.

For those who did see it, what did you think of the show? Discuss. Or you can always just leave a friendly tip about how I can get a river rock shower for a smashing good price.

Post from: Blisstree

Green Is The New Black