TEAM BeauSoleil is negotiating plans to manufacture its solar-powered home with Louisiana System Built Homes in St. Martinville. Team leader Dr. Geoff Gjerston made the announcement during a recent dedication ceremony.
The Louisiana BeauSoleil Solar Home is located near Fletcher Hall on campus. A group of architecture, engineering and business students from the 小蝌蚪APP started working on the home two years ago. They were one of 20 teams from across the globe that competed in 2009 U.S. Solar Decathlon in Washington D.C. last October.
The team placed first in market viability for their home and also won the People小蝌蚪APP檚 Choice Award.
小蝌蚪APP We are continuing on a journey of exploration with the BeauSoleil home,小蝌蚪APP said Gjertson.
He noted the team intends to develop three versions of the home: the 800 square-foot prototype; a 950 square-foot, two bedroom home; and a 1,200 square-foot, three bedroom home.
As far as costs, Gjerston said the team小蝌蚪APP檚 goal has always been and continues to be a home that is affordable by the median income family in Louisiana.
Currently, the home is being used by students, who are monitoring it for efficiency, functionality and livability.
小蝌蚪APP The BeauSoleil project and other university projects of this magnitude put our high-caliber students on an international stage where they shine brightly,小蝌蚪APP said UL Lafayette President Joseph Savoie. 小蝌蚪APP淭hese projects are also led by strong faculty members who engage their students and encourage them to push beyond the classroom.小蝌蚪APP
At the dedication, the team unveiled a plaque honoring its sponsors.
小蝌蚪APP We are so proud to recognize everyone with this plaque,小蝌蚪APP said Gjertson. 小蝌蚪APP淚 know that the home and the plaque will stand as a testament to the enormous commitment that our university and community made to our project.小蝌蚪APP
The home is open every Tuesday and Thursday during semesters for public tours.