Composites Help to Win Solar Decathlon Design

Recently, the design of SURE HOUSE won the 2015 Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Decathlon. It is a solar-powered home made with composites repurposed from boatbuilding materials designed to withstand hurricane-force winds and flooding. Designer are students from the Stevens Institute of Technology.

Except for fiber-composite materials, fiberglass chopped strand mat the SURE HOUSE design includes bi-folding storm shutters, which were made with a composite foam core and wrapped with fiberglass. Each layer was placed in a different direction. That is to maximize the strength of the house and protect it against debris and water during heavy storms.

The entire bottom level of the house is completely waterproof and energy efficient. According to the designers, the house save 90 percent energy than a regular home.  They add the SURE HOUSE’s rooftop solar panels can produce around 10,000 watts of power while still being connected to the grid. The team has also built a public USB charging station outside the house that can be used during emergencies.

This project was about creating a real, livable residence for families in coastal communities who will be hardest hit by the effects of climate change. The design provides a blueprint for the construction of homes that can endure extreme weather and epitomizes the principals of sustainable living.

ZCCYFIBERGLASS is a professional manufacturer of fiberglass which can be used in the design of SURE HOUSE. You can find more details on our facebook, twitter or website.