Spotlight
Innovation: International Impact
FleX House, a net-zero solar energy home built by students from USF and three other Florida universities, traveled to Washington, D.C. to compete in the international Solar Decathlon.
| USF News
The Washington Monument overlooks the Solar Village on the National Mall's West Potomac Park.
Photo by Stefano Paltera | U.S. Dept. of Energy
Two years of planning and three months of building came to an end in September as Team Florida's FLeX House made its way to Washington, D.C. to compete in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011.
The 930-square-foot, net-zero solar energy home was built by students and faculty from USF, Florida State University, the University of Central Florida and the University of Florida under the direction of USF assistant professor and team leader Stanley Russell. Nineteen collegiate teams representing five countries and four continents took part in the biennial competition that challenges college students to design and build an energy-efficient, affordable and attractive solar-powered home. The homes were on display from Sept. 23 to Oct. 2 on the National Mall's West Potomac Park.
In D.C., the houses were judged in 10 separate categories, including affordability, architecture and entertainment. Team members facilitated public tours and helped educate visitors about innovative ways to save energy.
FLeX House is now back in Florida at the USF Research Park where it will serve as an exhibition and research lab for more green innovations.
FleX House Gallery
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The FLeX House base module is designed for a young couple or a couple with a small child living in Central Florida on a moderate income. As the family grows, new modules can be added to the base to expand the living space.
Photo by Jim Tetro | U.S. Dept. of Energy Solar Decathlon
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The FLeX House base module is designed for a young couple or a couple with a small child living in Central Florida on a moderate income. As the family grows, new modules can be added to the base to expand the living space.
Photo by Jim Tetro | U.S. Dept. of Energy Solar Decathlon
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The FLeX House base module is designed for a young couple or a couple with a small child living in Central Florida on a moderate income. As the family grows, new modules can be added to the base to expand the living space.
Photo by Jim Tetro | U.S. Dept. of Energy Solar Decathlon
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A shading structure with cypress louvers is designed to shield the roof and walls from the hot Florida sun.
Photo by Jim Tetro | U.S. Dept. of Energy Solar Decathlon
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After a stormy day, Team Florida shines brightly at night during the competition.
Photo by Stefano Paltera | U.S. Dept. of Energy