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January Classes & News ACHP

Happy New Year from your friends at ACHP! A special thanks to the 2,837 homeowners who participated in the classes we offered in 10 communities and the 302 building professionals who took classes in 7 communities around the state in 2012.

Residential Contractors:
January 14 & 15 Advanced Cold Climate class

For contractors looking to obtain a residential endorsement or who still need continuing education, we have a 16-hour Advanced Cold Climate (ACC) class on January 14 & 15 from 8 AM – 5 PM. This is a two-day intensive workshop presenting energy-efficient building techniques for builders, designers, planners and homeowners. It's an excellent opportunity to learn the latest construction methods related to residential energy efficiency.
 
The building technologies introduced are based on energy conservation through the use of insulation, air/vapor retarders, insulating windows, and controlled ventilation systems, among other methods. ACHP instructors are well trained and highly experienced with state-of-the-art building methods. They teach techniques for maximum energy efficiency and conservation for homes built in northern climates.

Monday and Tuesday, January 14 and 15, Anchorage
ACC 16 hour: $450 • Register here.

Free clean energy forum January 9 
Sponsored By Renewable Energy Alaska Project (REAP)

Chris Rose, executive director of REAP, will give an update on current energy projects, programs and policy in Alaska. His presentation will include the outlook for future renewable energy and energy efficiency development in the state, and highlight REAP’s education efforts for the 2013-2014 Legislative Session. Folks outside of Anchorage can register for the live Webinar here.

Wednesday, January 9, 6 PM – 8 PM
Anchorage Museum Auditorium, 625 C Street • Free

Closing Cost Assistance Program and BEES update

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) will consider adoption of a Closing Cost Assistance Program at the January 9, 2013 board meeting.   If approved, AHFC will offer a loan product at a competitive rate that includes funds for closing costs, minimum cash investment, and principal loan reduction. The spare cash could be used to make energy efficiency improvements to your home in order to lower monthly operating costs. At a time when energy costs are high and mortgage interest rates are low, this new mortgage loan product could be a wise investment.
 
Also at the AHFC January 9, 2013 board meeting, a request for authorization to hold public hearing to consider changes to the Alaska Building Energy Efficiency Standard (BEES) will be discussed. The 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)  is now available and significantly changes the minimum energy standard from the 2009 IECC, which is the currently adopted and amended code. The AHFC board will be considering adoption of the 2012 IECC with Alaska Specific Amendments as the new BEES and staff is requesting authorization to open a public comment period and to hold a public hearings to obtain testimony.

High efficiency wood heating workshop in Wasilla

Whether developing a net-zero energy home or seeking relief from rising fuel costs, many Alaskans have turned to wood for heating. Join presenters Mike Jefferies and Mark Masteller for a look at high efficiency wood stoves, inserts, masonry and pellet heaters, boilers, and more. Learn how to choose the right stove for your home, operate it safely, and maximize the amount of heat and reduce emissions. Brought to you as part of Alaska Center for Appropriate Technology's Path to Net Zero Energy Workshop Series. 
Registration required as space is limited. Register here.

Saturday, January 12, 10 AM – 2:30 PM • Agate Inn, Wasilla
Cost: $20 for ACAT members/$40 for non-members, $10 for webinar only (Become an ACAT member for just $25/year)
More info: www.ACAT.org, info@acat.org, or 907.229.1982.