s.ky blue information
The Solar Decathlon is a project of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in partnership with DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
Rainwater Harvesting: 13#
The composite decking system is designed to not only function as an inviting outdoor living space but also enables rainwater to be harvested and used to augment non-potable water needs. The collected rainwater is stored in tanks located under the deck. The stored rainwater is used to water the plants using a highly efficient water usage system. Sensors placed inside the plant pots determine if the plant needs water. If water is needed the system provides a small amount of water to the plant. The system then waits for a few minutes and checks to see of the plant still needs water and if so, the plant receives another pulse of water. This continues until the watering needs of the plant are met.
