Solar House Send-Off Set for Sept. 28

The University of Cincinnati solar house will soon be on its way to Washington, D.C.

The house is one of only 20 like it in the entire world. All were built by students in a select international competition in which only 20 universities around the globe were permitted to participate. The goal of the contest (called the Solar Decathlon) is to build the most innovative and efficient house where all the structure’s energy needs – appliances, AC/heating mechanics and even a commuter vehicle – are provided by the sun.

UC’s house will be disassembled into four parts and transported to Washington, D.C., where crowds will tour it and the other 19 homes from Oct. 12-Oct. 19.

To celebrate the students’ energetic accomplishment in designing and building the home, a “Solar House Send Off” is planned for 10:15 a.m., Friday, Sept. 28, in front of UC’s Braunstein Hall. At that time, the first two trailers (carrying half the house) will leave campus for the journey to Washington.

Agenda for the "Solar Send-Off Ceremony"

10:15 a.m.
Members of UC’s Pep Band provide light-hearted tunes.

10:30 a.m.
UC President Nancy Zimpher speaks and provides special recognition to the students who have made this achievement possible.

10:40 a.m.
Two trailers – carrying half of the total house – leave campus from in front of UC’s Braunstein Hall to begin the journey to Washington, D.C.  Heading this "parade" off campus will be UC President Nancy Zimpher in an electric, "Herbie-like" car (the Sun Bug) that is part of the Solar Decathlon competition.