LIVE Challenges
LIVE Challenges
Sustainable Solar Building Design
Questions ? Please contact Jenny Brinker : Email : jenny . brinker @ nwtc . edu Phone : 920-498-7100
TRADES & ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGIES
Student capacity : 24 students ; can work alone , or in groups up to four students
In groups of 1-3 students , design and model home with the goal of maximizing the model home ’ s energy efficiency and solar energy production . Students will use a free , downloadable ENERGY 3D software tool to design a home with a low energy footprint . ENERGY 3D provides options for optimizing building characteristics such as infiltration , insulation , window location , awning and tree shading , and accommodates the use of solar photovoltaic ( electric ) systems . The Tech Challenge competition will be organized so that students will have time to learn about the ENERGY 3D software and create a building design . Models will be judged based on annual energy use , design , and cost .
Here is a summary of the judging criteria . A more descriptive set of instructions is provided before the competition . Criteria Poor Satisfactory Commendable
Design components
Annual energy use
Solar component
Realistic , livable and affordable design
Judging Interview
Missing one or more of the home design requirements 1 Point
Energy use is more than 22kWh / ft 2 ( 237 kWh / m 3 )
0 Points
Missing solar installation .
0 Points
The home does not appear livable . The home ’ s cost is in the top 25 % of the competitions ’ home costs . 1 Point Missing one or more Judging Interview reports
1 Point
All home design requirements are present
2 Points
Energy use is less than 22kWh / ft 2 ( 237 kWh / m 3 ), but greater than a Zero Net Energy home 3 Points Solar contribution to the home ’ s energy production is minimal . Solar panels could have better placement for solar production and / or aesthetics . 3 Points
The home is livable . The home ’ s cost is in the middle 50 $ of the competitions ’ home costs .
2 Points
All Judging Interview reports are provided , but unable to answer questions about the reports and design .
2 Points
All home design requirements are present in a well-organized design
3 Points
Design is near net-zero or generates more energy than it uses
6 Points
Solar provides most or all of the home ’ s energy needs . Solar panels are placed in an area that receives maximum sunlight and look aesthetically pleasing .
6 Points
The home is livable and aesthetically pleasing . The home ’ s cost is in the lower 25 % of the competitions ’ home costs .
3 Points
All Judging Interview reports are provided , and judges ’ questions about the reports and design are answered in a way that demonstrates understanding of home energy efficient design . 3 Points
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