The Importance of Energy Saving and Energy Requirements Across the Province
09 Nov
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

The Importance of Energy Saving and Energy Requirements Across the Province

In today’s world, the importance of energy savings has never been more critical. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to lowering utility bills, energy efficiency plays a vital role in creating a sustainable future. For British Columbia (BC), and especially the City of Vancouver, these priorities are emphasized through stringent energy performance standards like the BC Energy Step Code and the city’s own energy regulations. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of energy-saving initiatives, the BC Step Code energy requirements across the province, and some of the rebates available for those looking to make their homes or buildings more energy efficient.

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Unlock Big Savings and Comfort: Energy Upgrades for Multi-Unit Residential Buildings with New Rebates - Enerma.ca
11 Oct
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

Unlock Big Savings and Comfort: Energy Upgrades for Multi-Unit Residential Buildings with New Rebates

Are you looking to improve the energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability of your apartment or condo building? The Multi-Unit Residential Building Retrofit Program, launched in September 2024, offers exciting opportunities for multi-family building owners in British Columbia to enhance their properties while saving on costs. This initiative, brought to you by BC Hydro and the Government of B.C., provides a range of rebates and support to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption.

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Climate Risk Assessment - Enerma.ca
04 Oct
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

Understanding Climate Risk Assessment: A Key to Future-Proofing Buildings

As the impacts of climate change become increasingly evident, the need for resilient, adaptive, and sustainable building design is more critical than ever. Climate risk assessment has emerged as a crucial tool in addressing this challenge, offering insights into how future environmental changes can affect the built environment. Here, we will explore the importance of climate risk assessment and its role in safeguarding buildings against evolving climate threats.

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27 Sep
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

Funding Opportunities for Green and Inclusive Community Buildings

The Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) Program offers substantial funding for new builds and retrofits aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability. This program supports projects designed to meet stringent environmental standards and promotes high-performance buildings that serve community needs.

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Zero Carbon Building (ZCB) Services -Enerma Energy Modeling Services - Enerma.ca
17 Sep
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

Zero Carbon Building: A Step Toward Sustainable Development in Canada

The climate crisis demands innovative approaches to reduce carbon emissions, and Canada is rising to the challenge. The Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) has introduced the Zero Carbon Building (ZCB) standards, a pioneering framework designed to decarbonize Canada’s building sector and help meet the country’s climate commitments. These standards offer a roadmap for creating energy-efficient, low-carbon buildings that minimize greenhouse gas emissions. But what exactly does it mean for a building to achieve zero carbon, and how do the ZCB standards support this transition?

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Enerma - Understanding Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Buildings
11 Sep
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

Understanding Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Buildings

The push for sustainable construction practices has become more critical than ever. One key tool in this journey is the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which helps quantify the environmental impact of buildings from cradle to grave. LCA provides a comprehensive view of a building’s total environmental footprint by evaluating the energy and resources consumed during different phases of its life cycle—from material extraction to disposal. Let’s delve into the process of LCA and explore strategies to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings.

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Maximizing Kitchen Efficiency - Enerma.ca
20 Jun
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

Maximizing Kitchen Efficiency: Recirculating Hoods vs. Direct Exhaust Ventilation

In today’s world, energy efficiency and sustainability are at the forefront of every homeowner’s mind. When designing or upgrading a kitchen, choosing the right ventilation system is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and reducing energy consumption. Two primary options are available: recirculating hoods and direct exhaust ventilation. Both have their merits, but understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your energy modelling and sustainability goals.

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14 Jun
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

Roof Insulation: Keeping Your Home Comfortable and Energy Efficient

When it comes to maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home, roof insulation is one of the most crucial aspects. Proper insulation not only keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, but it also significantly reduces energy costs. There are various types of roof insulation available, each with its unique benefits and applications. Some of the most popular insulation materials and methods will be discussed below to help you choose the best option for your home.

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The Importance of Windows in Building Performance
08 Jun
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

The Importance of Windows in Building Performance

When aiming for sustainability and energy efficiency, windows are a critical element in the overall performance of a building. Whether you’re collaborating with an energy advisor, performing an energy efficiency audit, or adhering to the Step Code, the design and quality of windows significantly impact thermal performance, comfort, and energy consumption. Far beyond their aesthetic value, windows play a crucial role in regulating heat gain and loss and providing natural light, all of which are essential for a building’s efficiency and livability.

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The Importance of Building Envelope in Saving Energy by Reducing Thermal Demand - Enerma.ca
01 Jun
Design trends, Enerma Solutions, New Buildings, Renovation

The Importance of Building Envelope in Saving Energy by Reducing Thermal Demand

In our quest for sustainability and energy efficiency, the concept of the building envelope stands out as a fundamental approach to reducing energy consumption. The building envelope—comprising walls, roofs, windows, doors, and floors—plays a critical role in determining the thermal performance of a building. A well-designed and properly constructed building envelope, often guided by an energy advisor and informed by an energy efficiency audit, can significantly reduce thermal demand. This, in turn, leads to lower energy consumption, aligning with building standards like the Step Code, and ultimately resulting in cost savings and environmental benefits.

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