Photo courtesy U.S. Department of Energy

Photo used under a Creative Commons license with Jim Tetro/U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon

The University of Maryland took the top prize at this year’s Solar Decathlon. The competition, which is put on by the U.S. Department of Energy, challenges college teams from around the world to design, build and operate solar-powered houses. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced the winner Saturday. Purdue University took second place and New Zealand’s Victoria University took third.

Maryland’s entry is called WaterShed and includes:

  • A modular constructed wetland that helps filter and recycle greywater from the shower, clothes washer, and dishwasher.

  • A green roof that slows rainwater runoff to the landscape while improving the house’s energy efficiency.

  • A garden, an edible wall system, and a composting station to illustrate the potential for improved health, energy, and cost savings with a complete carbon cycle program.

    • Filed Under: solar decathlon, Steven Chu, U.S. Department of Energy, university of maryland, weekend,