Arizona State University and the University of New Mexico (ASUNM) have enlisted Accelerated Construction Technologies to host their project for this year’s Department of Energy Solar Decathlon Competition.

ASUNM’s project, Solar Homes Adapting for Desert Equilibrium (SHADE), will feature in this October’s competition in Irvine, Calif., during which universities from all over the country showcase solar-powered homes that are judged on affordability, energy efficiency, architectural appeal and marketability.

“ASU and UNM decided to pursue a collaborative entry for the 2013 solar decathlon, because a lot of the issues we face here in Phoenix are also being faced in Albuquerque,” said Mathew Fraser, an associate professor at the School of Sustainability at ASU.

Team ASUNM
Team ASUNM

These concerns include misappropriated infill lots in the center of the city and fulfilling future demands for energy.

“We’re trying to create a modular home that reacts and adapts to the desert landscape, as well as can reorient itself for multiple infill lots,” said John Cribbs, architectural project manager and master’s graduate from ASU.

The project is a semi-dethatched family home designed for an active retired couple that utilizes multiple methods of shading, recycled material, native plants and a thermal storage unit in order to create an affordable, energy-efficient house specifically designed for desert living.

The students will also be judged on construction costs, and have a target of $250,000.

The project, being a residential project, is different than the typical commercial project taken on by ACT, but owner Mike Morton was “flattered” that they were approached by the team, pointing out that his son is an ASU student.

“They needed someone with the technology, expertise and wherewithal to assist with the project,” he said. “This wasn’t an avenue to get into residential – we’re just really happy to help ASU reach their goal.”

The competition, which happens every two years, will span from October 3 – 13, during which the SHADE house will take place in 10 competitions that judge different aspects of the house.