Key Departments

- Innovation & Imagination -

The Research and Rural Development Department promotes a sustainable-built environment so that Alaskans have access to safe, quality, and affordable housing. Innovative ideas and creativity supporting Alaska’s unique housing challenges require critical thinking and long-term solutions.

  • Administers residential energy efficiency and sustainable housing programs

  • Provides education, outreach, and project assistance to homebuilders and project managers

  • Establishes building and energy code standards for AHFC through partnerships with local, state, and national experts

  • Implements and maintains building-related market tools and infrastructure such as the AkWarm Energy Modeling Software, the Alaska Retrofit Information System Database, and Home Energy Rating System

  • Conducts building, energy efficiency, and policy research through partnerships with the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory extension in Alaska, the Cold Climate Housing Research Center, and others

3D Concrete Printed Home

Innovation guides research developing solutions specific to Alaska’s unique geography. 

Energy Efficiencies in Education

Bringing energy efficiencies to large buildings saves money and supports healthy communities.