DOE Solar Decathlon Design Challenge

Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the Solar Decathlon Design Challenge, formerly known as the Race to Zero Student Design competition, challenges and inspires the next generation of building science professionals to design an affordable, net zero energy home that meets DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home guidelines.

Penn State has participated in this competition since it began in 2014 as the DOE Challenge Home competition.

Check out the links to the right to read more about Penn State's submissions.

For more information on the competition, visit the 2025 Solar Decathlon Design Challenge website.

2024-25 Solar Decathlon Design Challenge

To participate in the Solar Decathlon team as a student, faculty mentor, industry adviser, or financial supporter, contact Chris Hine. Students can also go to the Solar Decathlon's Org Central webpage.