Over the last few weeks, the 2010 Solar Decathlon Design Competition attracted over one thousand students to participate in this design-build competition which challenged the teams to design, build and operate solar-powered houses. These designs had to be cost-effective, energy-efficient, attractive and durable. A group of 17 entries rose above the rest, attracting relentless scrutiny from the competition’s judges. At the end of the competition Virginia Tech‘s “Lumenhaus” took first place! This competition has helped the world to see the possibilities of self-sustaining structures, especially with investments in solar technology. Click here to read about all 17 finalists, view photos of the homes and of the competition, and learn more about what made the “Lumenhaus” outshine the competition!












