U of I team takes 2nd in Solar Decathlon

October 16, 2009 (WASHINGTON) -- A super energy-efficient, solar-powered house earned a team from the University of Illinois some serious bragging rights.

The home, which is called The Gable House, won second place in the 2009 Solar Decathlon design competition. It was built on the U of I campus and then taken apart and trucked to Washington, DC. The house was reassembled for the competition on the Washington DC Mall.

The 800-square foot structure is made mostly from recycled, reclaimed wood and engineered bamboo. It's outfitted with a rooftop of solar panels.

"It's great to prove that simple things that everybody can do can come together and make a well performing house," said Tim Moran, University of Illinois Graduate student.

The contest was sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy.

A team from Germany won first prize.

All the houses will remain on the mall through the weekend so visitors can check them out.

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