The U.S. Department of Energy announced in January that the Solar Decathlon 2011 will no longer be on the National Mall in Washington D.C. The DOE broke the news while all twenty teams were together at the International Builders' Show in Orlando.
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| As part their exhibit at the International Builders' Show, the twenty Solar Decathlon 2011 teams showcased half scale models of their designs. |
While no alternative has been decided yet, officials are working to find a new venue for the competition. The DOE said in its announcement that the condition of the National Mall has suffered from past Solar Decathlons.
Many of the 2011 decathletes are disappointed because much of their design has been catered toward their plans to showcase their houses on the National Mall for three weeks. The effectiveness of each of the houses' photovoltaics depend on how well they are able to capture the sun's rays. A different venue would have different conditions (in terms of sunlight) that the outcome of the competition could be drastically affected.
Additionally, some are concerned about how this decision will affect each team's sponsorship. The prestige of the National Mall is a big selling point when describing the competition to the public and especially potential sponsors. For those who aren't familiar with the competition, many don't realize the significance of the Solar Decathlon until it's said that the twenty houses will be displayed on the National Mall for three weeks. It is a high-profile location that carries a lot of traffic, and some sponsors have decided to contribute to the project for that very reason.
Decathletes and their supporters are currently working together to reverse the decision and return the Solar Decathlon 2011 to the National Mall. If you wish to learn more and get involved, read and sign the petition here.
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