Solar House Donated

We are delighted to officially announce the donation by the University of Colorado (CU) of their winning home from the 2005 Solar Decathlon to GreenTown and the community of Greensburg. The Decathlon is a competititon sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy which challenges 20 universities from around the world to build the most state-of-the-art, sustainably designed residence. This year will mark the fourth such competition since the project was launched in 2002.

As stated on DOE's Decathlon website (www.solardecathlon.org), the purpose of thecompetition is to bring "attention to one of the biggest challenges we face—an ever-increasing need for energy. As an internationally recognized event, it offers powerful solutions—using energy more efficiently and using energy from renewable sources."

CU has won this contest twice, in 2002 and 2005. This home is a very generous contribution and will be a great addition to GreenTown’s Chain of Eco-Homes.

CU Professor of Architecture and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Peter Schneider paid a visit to Greensburg in late December to help pick the best site for the home, and to work out the details for its delivery and set up. The University is paying for shipment and set-up costs. It is scheduled to be ready for touring and eco-lodging by the May 4th anniversary.

The Solar Decathlon home is another significant feather in the cap for Greensburg on its path to becoming America’s model green community.