Photo of group of people standing in front of a competition house, the 2017 University of Nevada, Las Vegas team.

Solar Decathlon Challenges

This Solar Decathlon, which spans 2019 and 2020, gives teams the option to participate in one of two Challenges: the Design Challenge or the Build Challenge.

Photo of a home design model from a previous competition.

Design Challenge (Annual)

Teams that compete in the annual Solar Decathlon Design Challenge must create residential or commercial building designs over one or two semesters.

View from inside one of the 2017 Solar Decathlon houses.

Build Challenge (Biennial)

Teams that compete in the Solar Decathlon Build Challenge must design and construct fully functional houses.

Kick-Start Your Solar Decathlon Competition!

On May 27, 2020, U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon organizers shared updates to the 2020 Build Challenge schedule and the latest updates to the 2021 Design Challenge. Participants also learned the application deadline for the 2021 Design Challenge and tips for a successful project.