6-Star Green

At the request of Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, CCHRC is working to develop a program outline for consideration that includes the basic elements of a 6th Star in the home rating system. The basic elements include attention to compatibility with AkWarm, incorporation of NAHB Green Home Building Guidelines, and consideration of an incentive structure.

Sustainable Northern Communities

The Sustainable Northern Shelter team works with rural communities to develop energy-efficient, affordable, and culturally-appropriate homes that can withstand Alaska climate extremes.

REMOTE Walls

The REMOTE Wall System, designed for extreme cold climates, features an air and/or vapor retarder and rigid foam insulation over the sheathing on the exterior of the house. It is used in both new and retrofit construction.

Safe & Effective Exterior Insulation Retrofits

Mobile Test Lab

The CCHRC Mobile Test Lab is fitted with nine wall sections, each constructed differently, to determine how retrofit insulation methods are susceptible to interior moisture

Product Testing

product testing equipment

The CCHRC Product Testing Lab studies concepts and products for the building envelope in circumpolar Arctic climatic conditions. Current projects include moveable exterior window insulation and ground source heat pumps.

Heat Pumps

heat pump

In this pilot program, CCHRC staff are monitoring ground source systems installed at a military base, a public elementary school and a private residence. This is part of an overall feasibility study for Alaska.