The need to conserve energy will continue to grow as energy costs increase as a result of the reduction of our known energy reserves. North Americans have been identified as the greatest per capita users of energy, and the greatest per capita producers of waste in the world. For the past ten years, the 'dishonor' of being the worst has passed back and forth between Canadians and Americans. In Canada, building construction, heating, cooling and maintenance accounts for more than one third of the energy used in the country. Building 'green' is inevitable... the only question is how green a building will need to be in the future in order to remain sustainable.
Can you explain the LEED™ Building Rating System?
Does a Green project cost more?
Are there any funds available to help finance my Green house?
Are there any funds available to help finance my Green business?
The Federal Government, thru Natural Resources Canada, has been actively encouraging the construction of more energy-efficient houses thru a variety of programs including R-2000, EnerGuide for New Houses and since January 2005, the ENERGY STAR® for New Homes program (Ontario). All of these programs required substantial reductions in energy use and waste. In return, your home is provided with a 'seal of approval' indicating that your home has met the requirements of the program, which typically increases the value of your property. CMHC offers a 10% premium refund on its mortgage loan insurance premiums, as well as extended amortization to a maximum of 35 years (subject to lender availability), to individuals who use CMHC-insured financing to purchase an energy efficient home, purchase a home and make energy-saving renovations, or renovate their existing home to make it more energy efficient. The refund is a one-time payment. The Province of Ontario offers provincial tax rebates (8%) on the cost to supply and install solar and geothermal equipment in existing and new homes.
On a smaller scale, there are several other funding sources available to help make your existing home a greener building. Most municipalities offer grants for water use reduction in the form of rebates for water and energy efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances, as well as rebates from public utilities for using high-efficiency electric lamps. Public utilities also have a series of programs aimed at reducing water and energy usages, including programs like Hydro One's Net Metering program.
Lapointe Architects is experienced with and has participated in the application process for a variety of these programs and we can help you take advantage of the funding available, whether for single or multiple family dwellings.