Design plan for house constuction by GT Solar Decathlon team.

Solar Decathlon
at Georgia Tech (SDGT)

Solar Decathlon
at Georgia Tech (SDGT)

The Solar Decathlon Team at Georgia Tech (SDGT) is a multidisciplinary student-led group based within the Georgia Tech School of Building Construction. Drawing inspiration from the U.S. Department of Energy's Solar Decathlon competition, the organization prioritizes the advancement of home energy efficiency and the reduction of carbon emissions. Its core mission involves nurturing the upcoming generation of professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction management, with a strong focus on promoting equity and environmental sustainability. 

SDGT capitalizes on the academic and industry networks of the Institute to actively participate in community development efforts, particularly in the underserved areas of Atlanta's Westside, through the Asset-Based Community Development approach, aiming to drive mutual progress and benefits.

Join us today to be part of the movement! We welcome interested students and corporate partners.

Student Leader
Jackie Zong

Jackie Zong

Civil Engineering

Student Leader
Arya Desai

Arya Desai

Civil Engineering

Student Leader
Rachel Witherspoon

Rachel Witherspoon

Architecture

Faculty Advisor
Frank Wickstead

Frank Wickstead

Part-time Lecturer & Managing Partner at Alair Buckhead

Group of students posing for a photo.

Under the Hard Hat

Our Goals

Our group consists of students from Georgia Tech and community collaborators, spanning a diverse range of majors and backgrounds, committed to:

  1. Educate future architects, engineers, and construction management experts, prioritizing equity and environmental sustainability.
  2. Lessen the energy costs and enhance the availability of renewable energy in Atlanta's Westside.
  3. Enhance the recycling and repurposing of materials in nearby regions by promoting deconstruction and reuse.
  4. Reinforce the position of Georgia Tech as a key community ally and contributor in surrounding areas.
Rending of a house design from the GT Solar Decathlon team design concept.

Making Net Zero Accessible

Connect with Us

The Solar Decathlon team at Georgia Tech is developing an affordable, sustainable home that achieves net zero energy consumption and utilizes materials with low carbon footprints. Our mission is to assist! Our architectural design is intended to serve as a long-term solution for the community.

Creating Positive Impacts in Our Community

Atlanta ranks fourth nationally in energy burdens, especially among low-income households and communities in Westside Atlanta, facing issues like equity theft and displacement. Our team aims to address these energy and housing challenges, support the transition to clean energy, and foster a green workforce. A key project includes constructing a new, energy-efficient house at 258 Andrew J. Hairston in Vine City, designed to blend with the historic neighborhood and be replicable in similar areas. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home adheres to Vine City's design guidelines, emphasizing sustainability through the use of off-the-shelf products for easy maintenance and operation. This initiative aims to simplify home ownership for first-time buyers in the community, making sustainable living more accessible.

In the News

SDGT Awarded $5K ASHRAE Grant

Team Advances in DOE Clean Energy Innovation

GT Team Moves on to IMPACT Phase

Partnering for a Sustainable Tomorrow

Thank You to Our Supporters!

Logos of supporters.

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