ASU Students Get Ready To Compete In Solar Decathlon

asu news. Students design, build solar-powered home for Southwest desert environment

A collaborative team of Arizona State University and University of New Mexico (UNM) students is set to participate in the 2013 U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon. The international competition challenges student teams from institutions of higher education to design, construct and operate solar-powered houses that are functional, energy-efficient and attractive.

The team, called ASUNM, is one of only 20 from across the globe selected to compete in the biennial event, which takes place Oct. 3-13, at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine, Calif.

The team’s project, named SHADE – Solar Homes Adapting for Desert Equilibrium – is an adaptable 800-square-feet living space powered by solar panels and designed for an older, active couple.