Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the biennial Solar Decathlon challenges 20 international student-led teams to design, build, and operate the most attractive, efficient and affordable solar-powered house. Scoring is based on 10 contests including architecture, engineering, affordability and market appeal, hence the name ‘Decathlon’.

Entering the Solar Decathlon is like starting a small business. Teams must not only design and build a solar powered home (and all the complex systems required to operate it), but also raise the required funds, and increase awareness of the merits of sustainable design and alternative energy within their community. All of this is accomplished in just 2 years, including transport of the home to the historic National Mall, in the heart of Washington D.C.

Team Canada embraces this challenge wholeheartedly, and invites students from all disciplines to contribute. There is ample opportunity for non-students as well. Indeed, Decathlon teams depend upon a strong support network, including industry partners and sponsors, members of Government, and the general public.