The 2020 Solar Decathlon Design Challenge will take place at DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado, from April 17-19.

I predict a big swing in energy sources in the upcoming years. Splashed across the news on a regular basis these days is the push toward electricity as the primary energy source.

Fossil-fuel imports could provide quick relief in the wake of disasters, but they will always put Puerto Rico at the mercy of the import energy market. No import infrastructure is needed to harvest more solar, wind and ocean energy.

Electrification of buildings has become a policy imperative of numerous states concerned about climate change. They are implementing policies that aim to de-carbonize electricity production by greater reliance on renewable energy sources.

A simple solar domestic water heater can easily be switched into solar-only mode by turning off the conventional (backup) heat source.

Using what I call the “New Standard” in solar/hydronic strategy, our solar-heated building installations are now faster to design and easier install.

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Throughout the event, attendees gathered at different tables to discuss various topics including radiant heating and controls, geothermal, solar, indoor air quality, innovative construction, hiring and training, making steam heating more efficient, tricks of the trade, the future of the industry, and more.