Florida fields the most Universities by far with Florida International University - a competitor in 2005 - again fielding a team, and Florida State University, University of Central Florida (home of the Florida Solar Energy Center), University of Florida, and University of Southern Florida comprising "Team Florida." All of Florida's competitors are State Universities.
Congratulations to all of the teams selected for this intellectually grueling competition.
Hopefully our State Legislature will take note and get serious about a renewable energy policy. There is clearly strong interest from our future engineers, architects, and environmental design professionals to support a renewable energy renaissance in Florida.
About the Solar Decathlon:
The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon challenges 20 collegiate teams to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that are affordable, energy-efficient, and attractive. The winner of the competition is the team that best blends cost-effectiveness, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.
The first Solar Decathlon was held in 2002; the competition has since occurred biennially in 2005, 2007, and 2009. The next event will take place in fall 2011. Open to the public free of charge, the event takes place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Visitors can tour the houses and learn how energy-saving features can help them save money today.
For more on the 2011 competition and to check out the prototype houses each team submitted for the competition, visit the announcement on the DOE website: solardecathlon.gov
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