U-M’s solar house finds new home at botanical gardens

The University of Michigan’s solar house might look like it’s made to travel but the sustainable solar decathlete has found a home at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens in the university’s Arboretum.The Michigan Solar House (commonly known as MiSo*) competed in the 2005 Solar Decathlon in Washington, D.C. The 660-square foot, solar-powered home that kind of looks like a camping trailer was designed and built by a team of 150 students, faculty and local volunteers. The goal was to create a house that produced its own energy. The solar house has been rebuilt in the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and is open for tours. The idea is to help create public awareness for sustainability subjects, such as energy efficiency and solar technology. For information on the tours, call (734) 647-7600.Source: University of MichiganWriter: Jon Zemke