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The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2017 student design competition (yes, it’s a mouthful), will take place in early October 2017 in Denver, Colorado.
The event, which challenges collegiate teams to design, build, and operate solar-powered, sustainable houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and attractive, will take place on October 5th - 12th, 2017. During those dates, the student teams will give free public tours of their creations.
The people of Denver are excited to have the competition in their city. Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock says “Denver is proud to work with the U.S. Department of Energy to host this fun and engaging academic competition in our city. This opportunity not only further elevates the Denver metro area’s leadership in energy efficiency, but also allows us to spotlight our burgeoning solar energy industry.” Dr. Franklin Orr, Under Secretary of Energy for Science and Energy, also notes that “Denver’s passion to create eco-friendly developments serves as a model for communities throughout the country and the world.”
The 2017 competition has been revamped from years past. Now, in the hopes of prompting students and the general public to gain an interest in accessible and sustainable living, there’s a specific focus on creating houses that feature innovative technology and the best green living practices.
“The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon challenges and inspires students to become our next green energy industry leaders,” says Orr, “The students in the Solar Decathlon competition gain invaluable hands-on experience on appealing designs, sustainable materials, and cutting-edge technologies.”
Plus, for the first time ever, the teams entering the competition are eligible for cash prizes. Each team that successfully completes the challenge and builds a solar house at the site will receive $100,000. Third-place gets $150,000, second-place earns $225,000, and first-place wins $300,000.
The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2017 is certainly set to provide Denver residents with a lot of fun. In addition to the public exhibit, there will be a community festival, sustainability expos, and professional development and consumer workshops.
Do you want to live more sustainably and decrease your carbon footprint? Going solar is a great way to affordably go green. Call or contact us today at 407.331.9077 to learn more about making the switch to solar!
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