Solar Decathlon Design Team
Problem statement
The largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States is due to the burning of fossil fuels for electricity, heat, and transportation. [1] Our conventional means of harvesting energy has direct correlation to the decline of our Earth. Fortunately, we can help prevent this occurrence from happening by simply changing the way we live. Transitioning from a traditional home into a net-zero home is a strong step in reducing harmful emissions and strain on the energy grid. With the lack of standard designs, efficiencies, changing climates, and different house appeals, net-zero houses for the average homeowner are still being properly developed. These homes are air tight, well-insulated, and produce as much renewable energy throughout the year as they consume. Why bother building one of these homes? The homeowner is left with a zero net energy bill and a carbon free home. Buildings account for 40% of the total energy used in the U.S. [2] The implementation of these renewable systems in homes will provide a decrease in grid stress and reduction in carbon emissions. Through our collaboration with the Milwaukee School of Architecture, our team intends to design a net-zero single family suburban household and submit it to the Solar Decathlon contest sponsored by the DOE that is monetarily feasible, appealing, and energy efficient. In order to succeed, we must address several features in home building, including: energy optimization, architecture, engineering, financial feasibility, market potential, consumer appeal, comfort, and innovation.
Team members
Riston Smith – leader
Ryan Mckernan – communicator
Haomiao Wang – accountant
Jared Schweiss – admin
Client