 A student's solar project soaks in some rays next to solar panels on top of Katherine Harper Hall on Sunday. Photo by Andrew Torrey | The Appalachian Appalachian is one of 20 schools worldwide and the only school from North Carolina to be selected for the biennial competition that emphasizes the design and creation of affordable, energy-efficient and attractive homes.
Teams from China, Belgium, Canada and New Zealand will be represented along with Appalachian and other teams from the United States.
Chad Everhart is an assistant professor of building science and member of Appalachian’s solar decathlon team.
“This is the most prestigious sustainable design and construction competition in the world,” Everhart said. “Just to be selected to compete is a huge honor.”
The team, which consists of both faculty and students, will begin construction on their competition house this fall.
At the time of the competition, the house will be broken down and transported to Washington, D.C. where it will be reassembled on the National Mall.
Previous Solar Decathlon winners include Team Germany in 2009 and 2007 and the Universities of Colorado at Denver, in 2005, and Boulder, in 2002.
Everhart said that while being in the competition is a nice reward in itself, it is not the ultimate goal of his team.
“Obviously, it will be a great learning experience not only for the students participating, but for faculty as well,” Everhart said. “However, we are planning to do more than just compete—we plan to win.”
Story: DAVID BENNETT, Intern News Reporter
Photo: ANDREW TORREY, Photographer |
