This January, Built Green Canada announced the launch of a new certification program for new, single-family homes: Net Zero Energy+.
Net Zero Energy+, an extension of Built Green Canada’s Single Family program, offers builders and homeowners a label that certifies that their homes have met strict requirements for sustainability and energy performance and are ready to go net zero.
At its core, the Net Zero Energy+ program focuses on helping builders achieve net zero in their projects (net zero meaning that homes will use only as much energy as they produce from renewable sources).
The program uses the EnerGuide Rating System to assess energy efficiency. In addition, though, the program addresses further criteria such as pollution reduction, home durability and resource preservation.
Built Green Canada says that certification through their programs offers builders and homeowners a kind of “two in one:” the EnerGuide label provides verification of the home’s energy performance, while the Built Green label gives assurance around “the green features integrated into the home.”
Getting Ready for Net Zero Energy Ready
The Pan Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF) has set a target that all new buildings will meet net zero energy ready standards by 2030.
To give builders opportunities to prepare for these upcoming changes to the building codes, the new program will offer training as well as project certification.
Get the Green Building Project Checklist
Use this handy checklist on your next project to keep track of all the ways you can make your home more energy-efficient and sustainable.
Built Green Canada notes that while some Canadian builders are already producing net zero homes, others are far behind that target. In fact, Efficiency Canada states that currently, less than 1% of Canadian buildings are net zero ready.
Jenifer Christenson, CEO of Built Green, sees the program as a way to help builders to overcome that gap. She says,
“We recognize builders, consumers and government are at different stages of the sustainability trajectory, and all those making steps forward are to be applauded.”
In order to get builders up to speed on developing net zero projects, the new program includes a mandatory training course. The course, developed in partnership with Blue House Energy, is a self-directed series of modules covering such topics as advanced envelope and mechanical system content.
The program also offers tools, product sourcing and support for builders pursuing certification for a project.
Image credit: Gus Ruballo
