A student-led team from the University of Calgary has been chosen to take part in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon for the third consecutive time, pitting its unique housing concept against another Canadian team and entries from across the United States and around the world. Team Alberta’s concept is based on addressing the housing needs that are so pressing in remote communities and industrial camps such as those in the Fort McMurray region. The team intends to produce a modular home that is easy to transport and assemble and is affordable for working Families, as well as for remote working populations. The U.S. Department of Energy announced Thursday the 20 collegiate teams selected to compete in the biannual competition to design, build and operate a highly efficient and sustainable house. Teams are required to compete in ten different categories – ranging from best architecture and engineering to energy production for heating and cooling – while gaining valuable real-world experience in a growing global industry. Next year’s contest will take place in Irvine, California, in the first Solar Decathlon held outside of Washington D.C. Teams will assemble and operate their homes while on public display at Orange Country Great Park.
(Image Credit: University of Calgary)