The Alaska Center for Energy and Power, along with the Cold Climate Housing Research Center, has launched an exciting initiative that could redefine housing in Nome, Alaska. Their collaborative effort has culminated in a sustainable entry for the Solar Decathlon, an international competition that showcases innovative, zero-energy buildings. This initiative not only emphasizes energy efficiency but also addresses the unique climate and lifestyle requirements of Nome residents.
A Home Tailored to the Alaskan Environment
At the heart of this project is a thoughtfully designed three-bedroom home, specifically tailored for the harsh Arctic climate. The innovative design boasts several essential features: a robust post-and-beam foundation, an Arctic entryway that helps minimize heat loss, and a dedicated room for processing game meat — a crucial aspect of the local way of life. These design elements culminated in recognition during the awards ceremony, where judges praised the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) team for their profound understanding of the climate-related needs of Nome, surpassing all other entries in the competition.
Defining Zero-Energy Buildings
Participating in the Solar Decathlon, the concept of “zero-energy buildings” takes center stage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a zero-energy building is one that produces enough energy to meet its consumption requirements over the course of a year. The projected annual energy costs for the UAF-designed home are remarkably low, estimated at just $240. This efficiency, combined with construction costs potentially halving the typical $500-per-square-foot expenses in Nome, positions this proposal as both economically feasible and environmentally sound.
Team Asriavik: A Step into Competitiveness
The UAF team, named Team Asriavik, marked their debut in the Solar Decathlon competition, competing against a diverse array of 26 international teams. Among this competitive field, a team from Sydney, Australia, took home the top prize. Nevertheless, UAF’s entry stands out for its localized focus and commitment to addressing the needs of the Nome community, especially the Solomon tribal members.
Looking Forward: Realizing the Design
Team members are now focused on the critical next steps to turn their vision into reality. Johnson, one of the lead designers, plans to propose their innovative housing design to tribal officials this summer. Their goal is to secure approval for construction to start as early as 2023, providing a tangible solution for the pressing housing needs in Nome.
Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Change
While government housing projects often exhibit hesitance towards nontraditional designs, the positive reception of this project holds promise for future developments. Masteller, another team member, expresses optimism about the potential impact, noting, “Even if the design isn’t accepted, it could convince them that a low energy-consumption building is plausible in that area.” This sentiment reflects a broader aim — to inspire local developers and decision-makers to consider innovative, sustainable building solutions that challenge the norms of conventional housing.
Conclusion: A Vision of Hope
The collaborative efforts of the Alaska Center for Energy and Power, the Cold Climate Housing Research Center, and the UAF team illustrate a commendable commitment to creating climate-adapted housing solutions. As Nome looks toward a future of sustainability and resilience, the promising design emerging from the Solar Decathlon serves not only as a blueprint for homes but as a beacon of hope for the community’s growth and adaptation in an ever-changing world.
