Energy Efficiency in New Buildings

New buildings can be designed to substantially reduce overall energy consumption. A performance of 25 percent better than the minimum requirements of the Model National Energy Code for Buildings (MNECB) is a common target in the marketplace, and can be achieved cost-effectively in most building types. Over 1,000 building design models validated by Natural Resources Canada's (NRCan's) Office of Energy Efficiency (OEE) have averaged a design efficiency that is even higher – 35 percent better than the MNECB.

Technology is only part of the answer. Following an Integrated Design Process (IDP), in which design professionals work closely together from day one, has been shown to reduce final costs by reducing revisions and optimizing the value of energy saving opportunities.

The OEE, as part of ecoENERGY for Buildings and Houses, promotes stakeholder networks, provides information for owners and professionals, training and feedback on energy simulation, and tracks baseline data for new commercial, institutional and multi-unit residential buildings. These activities include:

• Information on energy efficient building design, measures and technologies
• Tools and software for new buildings
• Training in simulation software and energy efficiency design practices
• Validation of new building designs with respect to the MNECB
• Energy Benchmarking and Rating System for Buildings
• Stakeholder Relationships to support mutually-beneficial activities
• MNECB

For more information, contact us