Opening its doors in September 2006, the Cold Climate Housing Research Center (CCHRC) in Fairbanks, Alaska is a new research center for the development, use, and testing of energy-efficient, durable, healthy, and cost-effective building technologies. With its extreme climate conditions, Alaska offers an excellent testing ground for technologies and products that can used in cold climate regions around the world. Alaska's cold season lasts for six months or longer in any given year, allowing ample time for researchers to conduct experiments and evaluations of housing performance.
Siemens Building Technologies supplied the parts and labor to design and manage the building automation and fire alarm system for the building. The building‘s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are controlled via sensors and wireless technologies from SBT.
In order to receive the coveted Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, Siemens additionally supplied the research center with a range of energy-saving, environmentally friendly technologies: alongside a CO2-based, demand-driven ventilation system, there is also substantial monitoring of the building’s fuel, water and power consumption. SBT is working with the center to monitor and control various renewable energy systems being installed at the site. These include solar photo-voltaic panels and solar hydronic heating, as well as a possible wood-fired, combination heat and power (CHP) biomass unit.
SBT is also collaborating with CCHRC in developing a green building science curriculum for schools. The curriculum will integrate history, economics, policy, technology, math and science to teach high school and vocational education students the full breadth of issues related to green building technologies.
The partnership with CCHRC is worthwhile for SBT and the research center in equal measure.
Siemens is provided the opportunity to test and use their technologies in northern climates, as well as familiarize users with the APOGEE building automation system in the center’s training room; CCHRC in turn has the opportunity to present its work to the industry, integrate the newest building technologies, and engage the public in more outreach and education.