The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon challenges collegiate teams to design, build, and operate solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and attractive. The winner of the competition is the team that best blends affordability, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.
For this year's competition Apricus supported the Alfred and Buffalo teams by donating solar hot water systems and assisting with the system design. Apricus has been supporting Solar Decathlon teams since 2005 and looks forward to continued support of this fantastic competition.
Team Buffalo (University at Buffalo, The State University of New York) finished 2nd overall place with maximum score of 100 in Energy Balance. The Apricus system was able to provide all the required energy for hot water supply without needing any contribution from the PV (electric) system, a key factory in the perfect score.
The GRoW Home considers four key themes for sustainable residential design: nurture active stewardship, think functional flexibility, live with nature, and recognize energy hierarchy. Sited in Buffalo, a city characterized by relatively sunny, dry summers and mild swing seasons, the GRoW Home seeks to better connect the home owner with the natural environment. A tight thermal envelope encloses the conditioned living spaces to reduce heat loads in the winter, and an intermediary sun space (the Growlarium) changes aperture and program based on weather and user needs.
Team Afred (State University of New York at Alfred College of Technology and Alfred University) finishing 11th in the competition. The Apricus system was part of a novel design that use solar hot water, rather than electricity, to provide heat to the clothes dryer.
Alf House was designed for a small family in the Southern Tier of New York State with three goals in mind: efficiency, affordability, and simplicity. It is designed to be decoupled from a hectic, modern-day lifestyle, offering the owners a taste of quiet solitude and outdoor indulgences. Alf House intends to bring people together in a large, inviting, multipurpose space with scenic views. The central gathering space allows for ideal connectivity and interaction.
