LG and University of Alaska Anchorage Revolutionize Cold-Climate Heating with New Research Labs
The Consortium for Advanced Heat Pump Research, a partnership between LG Electronics and the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), has reached a significant milestone.
It has opened state-of-the-art research laboratories in Alaska, located in Anchorage and Fairbanks.
The facilities aim to explore and improve heat pump performance in extreme weather conditions. This effort could transform heating in cold climates, promising more efficient and sustainable solutions in areas that rely heavily on fossil fuels.
The collaboration showcases the benefits of public-private partnerships. Over the past year, LG experts and UAA researchers have joined forces. They also work with local industry and government agencies.
Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy supports this initiative. He said it demonstrates how investments in Alaska can deliver global benefits. These research labs highlight the state’s role in advancing technology.
The labs simulate real-world home environments to provide practical insights. They test LG’s HVAC solutions, including ducted and duct-free systems. This approach ensures the technology meets real-life challenges.
Alaska’s temperatures can drop to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme cold makes testing critical for heat pump systems. Even in such conditions, the labs aim to improve air-source heat pumps as primary heating solutions.
Researchers focus on reducing reliance on fossil fuels and developing innovative solutions that work in the harshest climates. This goal supports regional and global energy efficiency efforts.
Chris Ahn, president of LG Eco Solutions USA, emphasized the importance of these labs. He said they align with clean energy targets supported by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
This research addresses challenges unique to cold climates. It contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The labs represent a step forward in global efforts to promote sustainable energy.
One technology being tested is LG’s Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump. This product recently won the 2025 AHR Innovation Award in the Sustainable Solutions category, highlighting LG’s commitment to innovation and energy efficiency.
The heat pump is part of a broader range of LG’s HVAC solutions. These products combine advanced engineering with innovative designs, promising new performance and reliability standards.
The Alaska labs are part of LG’s global research network, which includes collaborations in Korea, Europe, and China. By working in diverse climates, LG develops adaptable and practical technologies.
Sean Parnell, UAA’s Chancellor, praised the partnership. He said the research will produce energy-efficient solutions for the HVAC market, a key achievement for the university.
The global approach ensures the technologies address regional needs. It also broadens their impact by making them accessible worldwide. This flexibility strengthens the overall effectiveness of the solutions.
The Consortium for Advanced Heat Pump Research represents a vision for the future. It combines LG’s innovation with UAA’s expertise, aiming to make lasting changes in the HVAC industry.
Climate change challenges demand collaborative solutions. With these labs, Alaska will become a leader in clean energy research, and the benefits will extend far beyond its borders.