Energy Star Multifamily Certification Leading the Way to Energy Efficiency

The Delmanor Seniors Community in Aurora has made history by becoming the first building in Canada to receive the Energy Star Multifamily certification.

Energy Star-certified multifamily mid- and high-rise buildings must be at least 15% more energy efficient than those built to the provincial building code and must meet certain building envelope and mechanical requirements. The program assists builders, developers, designers and contractors in constructing more energy-efficient buildings, supports private-sector investment in high-performance buildings, increases comfort for residents, lowers operating costs for owners and reduces emissions for all.

Modelling on the success of the Energy Star New Homes program, EnerQuality began working with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and a small group of builders, engineers, energy advisors and architects committed to building better. This teamwork resulted in the Energy Star

Multifamily certification program, a voluntary, industry-led building standard and certification.

“We are incredibly honoured to become the first Energy Star-certified multifamily building under the program. We worked closely with EnerQuality to navigate the certification process,” says Delmanor CEO Adam Fineman. “We see this is an important initial step in not only reducing our carbon footprint, but in ensuring we are capable of providing the best possible service to our many residents.”

EnerQuality certifies energy-efficient new homes and buildings under a license agreement with NRCan, and facilitates the certification submission, review and approval process. The Delmanor Seniors Community in Aurora exemplifies how advancements in technology and construction processes can lead to energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings.

“Certification in new multifamily buildings will enhance environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting and support industry capacity to build toward net zero,” said Monica Curtis, president and CEO, EnerQuality.

“Thanks to our partnership with EnerQuality, the entire process was seamless from start to finish,” adds Mario Cimicata, Senior V.P., Construction Management, at Deltera. “Delmanor Seniors Communities serves as an important example of what’s possible with the many advancements being made in technology, construction processes and other areas of our industry.”

The Energy Star Multifamily program is growing. In addition to the Tridel Group of Companies, the Molinaro Group, FRAM + Slokker, Minto, QuadReal and others are exploring this certification. They are supported by leading licensed professionals, including EQ Building Performance, SRS Consulting Engineers, Purpose Building, RDH Building Science and Morrison Hershfield. OHB

For more information, visit EnerQuality at enerquality.ca/esmfhr.