Earlier this month, we reported a rumor that Solar Decathlon 2011 was heading to the National Harbor in Maryland. But, it turns out, as announced today by the Department of Energy and Department of Interior, the big event will be shuffled to West Potomac Park.
Buying a home is a big, expensive deal. It’s important that you know what you’re getting. Ideally, prior to purchase, you should know about its performance in at least four categories: energy use, water use, indoor air quality, and building integrity. But, as a nation, we’re not there yet. We’re getting there, though.
Update: Solar Decathlon Shuffled to West Potomac Park
A spokeswoman for student participants is reported to have said Solar Decathlon 2011 will be held at the National Harbor in Maryland, according to John McArdle, reporter for E&E News. I have not confirmed the accuracy of this information and there has been no official announcement of a location change to date.
Material ConneXion, a global materials consultancy, recently gave its material of the year award to Novacem for the company’s “carbon negative” cement. The product is being touted with increasing frequency and — it would seem from the literature — has the potential to change the world of concrete in 2014-15 when it hits the market.
Passive House is an increasingly popular low-energy standard. Passive Houses must be airtight (0.60 ACH at 50 Pascals) and low energy (4.75 kBTU/ft2/year max heating and cooling demand and 38 kBTU/ft2/year maximum primary demand) — requirements that slash energy demand by about 90%. Due to increasing popularity of Passive House, media mentions like this mini-series in The Tyee — are becoming more common.
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