Photos: Competition shines at Solar Decathalon

Perhaps not surprisingly, many of the student teams chose a 'green' theme either as an inspiration concept or as part of the construction.

The University of Maryland built the 'LeafHouse'. The green wall, like the green roof, on the building is practical because it provides insulation. It's also meant to convey a connection between the indoor and outdoor space.

The south-facing roof holds the solar-photovoltaic panels and the evacuated tubes, which use the sun to heat water.

Credit: Martin LaMonica/News.com

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