The UT Zero Energy House, a small structure placed on the McClung Plaza in 2009, combined efforts of researchers, engineers, and architects in Tennessee to develop, design, and build the home of the future. The structure was designed to showcase the latest innovations in the areas of building materials, information technology, solar energy, energy efficiency, and home design to demonstrate opportunities and methods for using sustainable energy resources. The house also served as the prototype for UT’s entry into the Solar Decathlon 2011.