A solar panel system collects energy from the sun in photovoltaic panels. That energy is then converted into DC power, stored in batteries, and inverted into AC power for household use. Learn more about the solar system in the LEAFHouse.

The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, one of the Solar Decathlon's title sponsors, featuress a variety of educational material on its website, including:

• A one minute animated demonstration of solar power
• A history of solar technology (PDF 484K)
• A discussion of the important benefits of solar electricity