There are 10 contests in the Decathlon. They include areas like architectural design, energy production and consumption, and affordability. Teams are awarded points in the completion of tasks with some contests being measured, like Hot Water, while others are juried, like Market Appeal. All of the entries must be self sufficient, creating enough solar power to perform household activities. Task contests display the homes’ ability to power a washing machine, charge an electric car, and supply ample hot water all at a comfortable home temperature.

The event presents an educational opportunity on sustainability to both the participants and the public. Young minds gain hands on training as they learn to think creatively about energy design and solutions. Being open to those wanting to view the exhibit at the National Mall in Washington D.C., this competition also gives people the chance to see the cost effectiveness of renewable energy and energy efficiency systems at work. Visitors can take these ideas and implement them in their own homes.

This year’s contestants include teams from the U.S. universities of Hawaii, Purdue, and Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the second place winner in the last decathlon of 2009. International teams include Belgium, New Zealand and China. For more details, see Solar Decathlon.