Nineteen solar-powered homes designed by students in the U.S. and as far off as New Zealand will be on display at West Potomac Park.

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Some took two years of research to construct, One has an exterior made of vinyl stuffed with recycled blue jeans. Inside, stowable furniture and "x-box connect" technology that controls the lights:

Each home must generate more energy than it uses and is judged on efficiency, affordability and aesthetics.

The University of Maryland made the cut this year with a home that mirrors the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.

“It slowly releases the water back into the environment - and also cleans it,” said David Daily of the University of Maryland engineering project. “So all the water you use is clean.”

Consumers can see new energy-saving ideas for their own homes and the students learn from each other.