2015 Solar Decathlon


Cal Poly architecture and engineering students designed this Solar Decathlon competition entry, which earned a third-place finish in Irvine, CA. This zero-net energy demonstration house was constructed at Cal Poly in collaboration with both professional contractors and students. Richard Beller led a fourth-year Solar Decathlon studio for five consecutive academic quarters, working closely with a group of over 100 students and thirteen faculty members collaborating on the design. Innovative features include a translucent roof of bifacial solar panels that combines indoor and outdoor space to create a shaded extension of the living space.

You can learn more about the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon competition by visiting their website.

U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon

2015 Solar Decathlon

2015 Solar Decathlon

Time-Lapse Construction Video