A highly energy efficient house is being built near the Upper Saranac Lake.  The home will serve as a residence for Rich and Cathy Kraft.  But it will also be a laboratory and model for energy efficient building in northern climates.

Rich Kraft is a builder.  He’s joined forces with the  Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) and the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA). Over the past year, Kraft designed the house while the team helped with ideas for the latest in new, energy efficient technologies.

They started the house this spring. When completed, it will be close to 1700 square feet, with three bedrooms, a walk-in basement and first floor. The researchers estimate the Krafts’ annual heating fuel costs will be less than their electricity costs for appliance and lighting.

Rich Kraft gives a tour of the partially completed house – and explains the thinking behind the design in this audio slideshow. (5:09)

Kinna Ohman produced the audio slideshow.