Atlantic Focus Fall 2018

ATLANTIC ATLANTIC

Canada Green Building Council ANNUAL 2018 ISSUE, Atlantic Chapter - CaGBC Regional Publication /

FOCUS

THE LIGHTFOOT & WOLFVILLE WINERY Building in harmony with the earth IKEA HALIFAX

New store a flagship of sustainability

CLEAN NET ZERO

Reducing our ecological footprint one home at a time

DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY

Green building for the future

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

1

Dr. William D. Finn Centre for Forensic Medicine

Halifax Central Library

The winner of the 2015 SABMag Green Building Award, FBM is home to a strong, passionate team of creative professionals, including a number holding LEED® Accredited Professional (BD+C) and Passive House Certifications. Whether it’s a library, a centre for education, or a site for forensic medicine – FBM ARCHITECTURE • INTERIOR DESIGN delivers results that have a positive, long term impact, not only for our physical environment, but for the people and communities our buildings serve.

2

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

Mona Campbell Building, Dalhousie University

people driven design. fbm.ca

ATLANTIC

Message from the Atlantic Chapter of the CaGBC

Thanks to our Sponsors

Atlantic Chair and Regional Director’s Report Welcome to the second annual issue of SABMag Atlantic FOCUS. We are very excited for the opportunity to highlight some of the green building projects in our region and hope that these leaders will inspire you.

The Chapter strives to be part of the continued evolution of the sustainable building industry through education, awareness, networking and advocacy. Our mission and focus on sustainable development challenges our industry to innovate and to keep pushing the envelope of performance.

The CaGBC Atlantic Chapter has had a busy 2018. We hosted four green building stakeholder roundtables in the region and have been sharing information about Zero Carbon buildings and the importance of retrofits. We continue to make the business case for green buildings throughout our region. BuildGreen Atlantic, and monthly lunch & learns, continue to provide our membership with educational content, access to a network of experts and allied professionals, and information on relevant products and services.

We are thrilled to include in this edition stories of exciting green building work happening in our region. Private developers, institutions, provincial departments and municipalities are all featured in this issue showing a range of project types. We are also very excited to have had the support of our newly minted Emerging Green Professionals (EGP) group in editing and writing some of the stories—including a feature on the committed group of EGPs who will be working on engagement to support the chapter in the coming months.

A special thank-you to our volunteers, members, partners and friends in developing and providing content for this magainze.

We want to continue to strengthen, promote and celebrate our green building community. We hope you enjoy this edition of Atlantic FOCUS and look forward to your story ideas for the next edition.

Lara Ryan Regional Director, Atlantic Chapter Canada Green Building Council

Matthew Jarsky Jarsky Studio Chair, CaGBC Atlantic Chapter Leadership Board

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

3

“We’re very pleased with the results of our upgrades.

We’re seeing savings and our staff find the clinic better lit and more comfortable” – Dr. Cathy Adams, Fairvale Animal Hospital, Rothesay, NB, Commercial Buildings Retrofit Program « Nous sommes très satisfaits des résultats de nos améliorations. Nous réalisons des économies, et la clinique est plus confortable et mieux éclairée », a dit la docteure Cathy Adams de la clinique vétérinaire Fairvale à Rothesay (N.-B.) et participante au Programme d’amélioration énergétique des immeubles commerciaux.

BUILD BETTER RENOVATE SMARTER

WITH NB POWER’S SUITE OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS

GRÂCE AUX PROGRAMMES D’EFFICACITÉ ÉNERGÉTIQUE D’ÉNERGIE NB

LOWER ENERGY BILLS INCREASE COMFORT REDUCE MAINTENANCE TIME & COSTS

RÉDUCTION DES FACTURES D’ÉNERGIE AMÉLIORATION DU CONFORT RÉDUCTION DU TEMPS ET DES COÛTS D’ENTRETIEN

Incentives available.

Incitatifs offerts.

Find out more at nbpower.com/saveenergy

4

CONSTRUISEZ MIEUX RÉNOVEZ MIEUX

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

Pour en savoir plus : energienb.com/econergie

See a digital version of CaGBC Atlantic FOCUS https://www.cagbc.org/ Click on Chapters/Atlantic/Atlantic FOCUS magazine.

22

In this issue 18

10 15

8

Clean Net Zero - Reducing our ecological footprint one home at a time

10

IKEA Halifax - New store a flagship of sustainability

20

12

Dalhousie University Green building for the future

26

FALL 2018

Hebron Heights - Retrofit makes business case for Passive House construction

26

The Lightfoot & Wolfville Winery Building reflects owners’ philosophy of harmony with the earth

Building a better tomorrow - City of Mount Pearl sets eye on future with three new buildings

29

Case Study: Frederiction PV Project New Brunswick’s largest

Become part of something bigger as an Emerging Green Professional

Environmental savings for this issue: ATLANTIC FOCUS is printed on Rolland Environ100 Satin, a 100% post-consumer

12 trees

45,044 L water

682 kg waste

1,774 kg CO2

fiber that is certified FSC and EcoLogo. It is processed chlorine-free, FSC-recycled and is manufactured using biogas energy.

+ ATLANTIC

A joint publishing project of the Atlantic Chapter - CaGBC and SABMag. Address all inquiries to Don Griffith: dgriffith@sabmagazine.com Published by Janam Publications Inc. | www.sabmagazine.com | www.janam.net

Cover: The Lightfoot & Wolfville Winery. Photo: Julian Parkinson Photography.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

5

Jointly owned by the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) and Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), GBCI Canada accelerates green building market transformation and impact in Canada.

GBCI Canada provides Canadian customer service and expert guidance to streamline the delivery of GBCI’s sustainability programs, tools and certifications, including: LEED, ICP, Parksmart, SITES, TRUE and WELL. With this integrated portfolio of programs, GBCI Canada enables the Canadian industry to leverage new opportunities to validate enhanced building performance and increase emissions reductions, operational savings and human health benefits.

The present and future of green building.

Canada is the second largest market for LEED globally. As the world’s most widely used and recognized green building rating system with projects in over 160 countries, LEED has accelerated green building on a global scale and trained a generation of professionals.

LEED is a holistic rating system that assesses not just energy and water consumption, but waste, transportation, product and material choices, indoor environmental air quality, occupant satisfaction, and employee health and wellbeing. LEED v4 also helps address GHG emissions from building operations, materials and transportation, allowing projects to measure energy efficiency and carbon reduction efforts.

Why LEED?

LEED certified buildings are an excellent investment. They cost less to operate, reduce energy and water bills by as much as 40%, and increase employee productivity and overall satisfaction.

6

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

LEED buildings appeal to corporate and public buyers, and attract savvy tenants who are willing to pay a premium for green space – with lease rates up to 2.3% higher than the average building.

With a focus on occupant wellness and comfort, including daylighting and non-toxic materials, LEED buildings have healthier indoor environments that attract tenants and retain employees, reducing absenteeism up to 19% and increasing productivity to the tune of $6500 per employee per year.

CBCL's LEED® accredited professionals are helping to shape a sustainable tomorrow and to date have delivered 16 LEED® certified projects.

Grid-tied and off-grid energy experts www.sage-energy.ca

902-306-1200 hello@sage-energy.ca

www.CBCL.ca

ATLANTIC CBCL is proud to have been involved in Dalhousie University’s 57,000 ft² Dalplex Fitness Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia

HALIFAX, SYDNEY, CHARLOTTETOWN, FREDERICTON, MONCTON, SAINT JOHN, ST. JOHN'S, HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY

FOCUS

See past issues of the CaGBC Atlantic FOCUS http://bitly.ws/wQo

Halifax, N.S. Sydney, N.S. Moncton, N.B.

p: (902) 429-0701 p: (902) 562-8090 p: (506) 383-8733

Mechanical & Electrical Consulting Engineers www.onsa.ca

OUR GREEN BUILDINGS

HOLD THE FUTURE

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS 24238 Green Building Dalplex Arch&BldgMagAd-2.indd 1

7

2018-08-13 12:28 PM

The Clean Foundation, an environmental non-profit based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, is leading the way in the Atlantic region with its Clean Net Zero pilot program, in the town of Bridgewater and surrounding areas. The program provides the framework that will help make it possible for residents to finance net zero upgrades to their homes.

Clean Net Zero Reducing our Ecological Footprint One Home at a Time

Mathew Davis is the coordinator and is working closely with homeowners taking part in Clean Net Zero. “This is one of the first programs of its kind in Canada and it’s helping us break ground and learn more about an industry that will be receiving a lot of attention over the next 10 years. Over this time, jurisdictions will need to build capacity and expertise in this field,” he says.

“Net Zero” is increasingly part of the green building industry vernacular. But what does it actually mean? It’s an innovative idea in the world of home energy efficiency that will ease our environmental footprint and save homeowners money in the long run. By pairing deep energy retrofits to improve a home’s energy efficiency with the installation of small-scale renewable energy generation such as solar photovoltaic, a net zero home is the gold standard in green buildings. The energy produced by the home is equal to the energy consumed annually and, importantly, what it does generate shouldn’t result in greenhouse gas emissions. As a society we are recognizing the need for ambitious solutions to meet our climate change mitigation targets set forth by the federal government. Net zero is one piece of that climate action picture.

8

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

The program is being delivered in collaboration with key partners including the Town of Bridgewater and the LaHave River Credit Union, and is made possible by a financial contribution from Natural Resources Canada. Bridgewater and the LaHave River Credit Union are providing low-cost financing to qualifying homeowners looking to retrofit their home to net zero standards.

“I think Clean Net Zero is an amazing program,” says Leon de Vreede, Sustainability Planner for the Town of Bridgewater and a key force in bringing the pilot to life. “It allows people to achieve these dreams of living in an energy efficient home, a home that generates all its own power, a home with solar panels on the roof. It allows people to achieve that in a very practical way.”

The Town of Bridgewater is a leader in sustainable action and is an example of how to cultivate a culture of green stewardship. As Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Bridgewater Richard McLellan explains, “What I see from the people of Bridgewater is that they have a close connection with the environment, especially with the river running right through the middle of town. Projects like Energize Bridgewater are proving that improving energy efficiency makes financial sense. People are noticing that these programs work and it is building confidence in us going forward with projects like Clean Net Zero.”

The framework for Clean Net Zero program has

“We actually believe that the things we’re doing in Bridgewater could spread

been established with focus on three key areas:

throughout Nova Scotia and throughout the country. The net zero program is

public awareness and knowledge; increased industry

already being studied by the federal government to see how other communities

capacity; and low-cost financing. Combined, they

could do it as well and other communities have even approached us directly to

address the barriers to deep energy retrofits.

ask the same question. In some ways, the ideas that we’re working with here have already made an impact across the country,” says de Vreede.

The first focus has been to increase public knowledge and awareness. These efforts included community

There are three overall benefits to a net zero home—economic, comfort and

workshops, a presentation at the Energize Nova

environmental. Economically it will help decrease utility costs and help protect

Scotia Discovery Fair, circulating social media

against rising energy rates. Ultimately, homeowners will pay off the upgrades with

content, and word-of-mouth through partners.

the savings from their utility costs. The highly efficient systems for heating and cooling and improved air quality means that they will live more comfortably in

The second is increased industry capacity through

their home. Environmentally, homeowners will help to combat climate change by

contractor training. The Nova Scotia Community

minimizing a home’s ecological footprint.

College (NSCC), Blue House Energy, and Bfreehomes aided in the development and delivery of a series

“It’s great to see Nova Scotia on the forefront of this, and to be a part of work that

of technical training workshops for contractors

will help inform and support the growth of this field across the country,” says Davis.

and certified energy advisors. This training series consisted of an online course from Blue House

Clean Net Zero is available until March 2019. However, registration by the end of

Energy, as well as four in-class workshops at the

September 2018 will ensure the best opportunity of completing the program.

NSCC Lunenburg Campus. Bfreehomes developed

For more information please visit: http://clean.ns.ca/clean-net-zero/

and instructed the in-class workshops and is collaborating with the technical team to develop

If you’re interested in participating in the first round of Clean Net Zero home

the pathway to net zero for participating homes.

retrofits, please contact: Mathew Davis from the Clean Foundation at

These efforts have paid off as it has educated

mdavis@clean.ns.ca or call 902-530-3676

37 contractors, tradespeople, and certified energy advisors on building science and net zero energy, as well as on retrofit best practices when upgrading a home to net zero.

The third area is providing low-cost financing options for potential participants. The aim is to facilitate upgrades that ‘pay back’ the homeowner within a certain financing term.

Homeowners pay the

financing back over a set period, and Clean does the analysis to figure out how they can save as much or even more in energy and heating expenses than the cost of the retrofits. This analysis can be a challenge due to many variables, so different upgrade options are being examined.

According

to

de

Vreede,

the

process

is

straightforward: “A meeting will be arranged with an advisor from LaHave River Credit Union to discuss available financing for retrofits. If the home is in the Town of Bridgewater, the Credit Union financing can be supplemented with municipal financing.

After the energy assessment and bank meetings Clean will begin contracting your home and provide free management throughout the project. Although the initial investment is still required, we wanted to make it as easy as possible for people to jump into the project with us.”

Clean Net Zero is on a pioneering path in achieving federal goals. In June 2018, Natural Resources Canada released the Generation Report outlining four transition routes to a low-carbon economy. One of the milestones is that net zero construction be Canada-wide by 2040.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

9

1

2

IKEA HALIFAX New store a flagship of sustainability

BUILDING EFFICIENCIES Some of the sustainability features include electric vehicle charging stations and preferred parking for hybrid and electric vehicles, free lightbulb and battery takeback services, rooftop solar panels and a

IKEA Halifax was constructed to operate as the most sustainable IKEA store in Canada, with a particular focus on energy efficiency and waste avoidance.

Key features of the building include a rooftop solar photovoltaic installation to provide electricity to the store, geothermal energy generation system to support heating and cooling needs, as well as 100% LED lighting throughout the store. Waste management equipment was installed to maximize material recycling and diversion from landfill, and a free take-back service for household batteries and light bulbs to ensure the hazardous materials contained are recycled responsibly.

geothermal energy system.

• Rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installation to provide electricity to be used on site [624 kW system will be IKEA’s largest solar installation in Canada • Geothermal energy generation system to support heating and cooling needs [approximately 120 bore holes allow heat exchange from underground] • 100% LED lighting throughout the building • Triple-pane argon insulated windows • High-reflectivity roofing to reduce solar heating in summer months • Voltage optimization system to regulate electricity current entering the building to control peak load and extend the life of electrical equipment • Small scale parking lot wind and solar demonstration on a few lighting posts [light posts powered by turbine and solar panel at the top]

Content provided by IKEA with editing support from EGP Meagan Lake

4

10

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

3

IKEA wants to have a positive impact on people and the planet and

FRIENDLY WASTE DISPOSAL

be a partner for positive change in the local community. At IKEA, we

ORCA - The ORCA is a machine that can “digest” up to 2,400

imagine the beautiful possibility of a sustainable future and go all-in to

pounds (over 1 ton) of food waste per day. Within 24 hours,

make this possibility a reality.

this technology turns food waste into environmentally safe water that flows straight into the municipal sewage system.

Sustainability is at the core of IKEA’s business practices and we’re proud to be a leader in sustainability and an active community partner. IKEA

The sustainable technology is housed in a stainless steel

Canada is committed to its sustainability initiatives and encouraging

container, with a door on the top which co-workers open to

Canadians to live a more sustainable life at home.

throw food waste inside. Within the container, the ORCA’s proprietary, natural Microorganism solution works with

IKEA Canada generates renewable energy equivalent to approximately

water and recycled plastic Bio Chips to quickly break down

four times the energy we consume across the country through

the waste. Through a process called “aerobic digestion,” the

our windfarms in Alberta and IKEA Halifax is proud to be the most

ORCA technology constantly churns all this material, adding

sustainable IKEA store in Canada.

oxygen that accelerates the time it takes to transform the food waste disposal into earth-friendly water.

As part of our national partnership with Tree Canada, IKEA Halifax planted more than 100 trees in Birch Cove Park in 2017 and 100 more

CUSTOMERS/COMMUNICATIONS

trees in Shubie Park in 2018.

IKEA Halifax was constructed and is operated with sustainability in mind, and is also a destination to find

1 and 2 - The site includes a 120 bore-hole geothermal system, and a small-scale parking lot wind and solar demonstration. Alumicor supplied ThermaWall 2600 series curtain wall with full frame separation for superior thermal performance and condensation resistance; and ThermaPorte doors (exterior) with high-performance thermal break for full thermal separation of interior/exterior components.

3 - The PV installation is IKEA’s largest in Canada.

4 and 5 - The store is designed to help customers image a future of sustainability.

5

solutions for a more sustainable life at home.

Prior to opening IKEA Halifax, more than 75 home visits were conducted to see how people live at home and how we can help them be more sustainable. This includes waste sorting options for Halifax’s recycling streams as well as products that will help them save water and energy.

A lot of care goes into making IKEA products, from water saving faucets, LED bulbs, and sustainably sourced materials including the wood and in all of the cotton we use.

We want people to feel good about bringing IKEA products home, because you don’t have to choose between sustainability and affordability.

IKEA Halifax has also opened our doors for store tours. We have welcomed more than eight groups through the store, including the Ecology Action Centre, Dalhousie’s Office of Sustainability and Applied Energy Research Lab at NSCC.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

11

Dalhousie University Green Building for the Future 1 1 - The Fitness Centre. Fitness Centre: Architect and prime consultant - FBM Architecture/Interior Design; Associate architects - MJMA Architects. Alumicor supplied ThermaWall 2600 series curtain wall, Capped & SSG; ThermaPorte doors (exterior); FlushGlaze TL 1800 storefront entrance framing; and Canadiana 400a doors (interior).

2 - The bioswale controls stormwater and creates a natural aesthetic.

3 - At the IDEA Project, water testing standards were deployed to ensure systems met performance expectations.

4 -The 150 kw solar photovoltaic (PV) installation on the Emera IDEA building and Design building. DSRA Architects.

By Rochelle Owen, Executive Director Office of Sustainability, Dalhousie University.

Natural light streams into the building with strategically placed windows and skylights, reducing the amount of LED light energy needed. The building envelope has been designed with consideration of comfort and

Dalhousie University, founded 200 hundred years ago, was originally located in downtown Halifax where City Hall now stands. In 1886, the University moved to the Forrest Building, which is still in use today. Now, with over 529,600 square meters of building space, the importance and commitment to green building is an important legacy.

energy consumption. The roof is heavily insulated to an R40 thermal resistance while walls are on target for R25. High performance glazing is installed along with controlled vestibule entrances (Figure 2). A transit stop is conveniently located in front of the building while six electric vehicle charging spots are provided along with 62 bicycle parking spots.

Enhanced commissioning was performed, and measurement and verification protocols will be followed using the smart meters installed.

The building features several energy and water efficient systems and

This year marks the completion of three innovative building projects on three of our campuses. The first is located on Dalhousie University’s Studley Campus where a two-storey, 5217

equipment from ventilation heat recovery to free cooling chiller modes.

The building has an open feel with naturally lit seating designed into

square-meter Fitness Centre was recently opened.

the built form that provides spaces for relaxing and social connection.

FITNESS CENTRE

facilities, and locker spaces provide amenities for users. Some of the new

To make way for the Centre, two houses used as offices and a

Potable water hydration stations, water efficient washroom and shower exercise equipment is human powered requiring no additional electricity.

student residence were salvaged, re-used and recycled with over 84% of construction and demolition materials diverted from the landfill. Items such as windows, doors and exit lights from these

IDEA PROJECT

properties were provided to a local charity building project.

On Dalhousie’s Sexton campus, the IDEA project is wrapping up. This

Landscapes are designed to control stormwater, enhance

addition of the Emera IDEA building and Design building. Sustainability

biodiversity and create a natural aesthetic with the prominent features of native trees and 90 meter bioswale with sweetfern, red fescue and sweet grass.

12

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

project included renovation of five existing building spaces and the features were woven throughout the project development from the outside in.

BIOMASS FACILITY At the Dalhousie Agricultural campus, major changes have been made to the district energy system and Central Heating Plant building. Over 95% of the buildings are on the district energy system which historically was fed by a biomass boiler.

The goal of the project was to address facilities renewal costs of existing end-of-life systems; support university and community carbon reduction and sustainability goals; connect research, teaching and operations; and support local economic development. Key features of the project included: • replacing the aging buried campus steam lines with hot water lines; • replacing the old wood boiler with a new wood boiler; • adding a 1MW organic rankine cycle turbine to create

2

electricity with waste heat used for heating the campus; • adding new air quality systems; • optimizing the distribution system with high efficient

Seventeen trees that came down for the IDEA project were replaced

pumps and metering; and

with an equal amount of biomass planted on Dalhousie campuses

• having a dual fuel bin for using and mixing different fuels

equalling over 170 trees. Some of the trees taken down were used

that meet the spec of the plant and University biomass fuel

to create benches for the building. Outside a green corridor cuts

values and criteria.

across the campus creating a link for future city active transportation connections. It includes permeable pavers, native vegetation, and

The renewable electricity created is approved as a Nova

dedicated space and markings for pedestrians and cyclists. Counters

Scotia Community Feed-in Tariff (COMFIT) project and

will be deployed to monitor ongoing use of the area.

follows COMFIT rules for biomass and efficiency standards.

The majority of biomass is sawmill residue from a local mill,

A 60 borehole geo-exchange field installed in the soccer field provides

some local yard waste and two smaller amounts of research

a heat source/heat sink to the new and existing buildings. 150 kw solar

fuels (chips from selective forest harvests through local

photovoltaic (PV) system was installed by the local renewable energy

forestry cooperatives and an agreement for willow).

company, Solar Global Solutions (SGS), along with a battery system that will be used for peak shaving, research and teaching.

These three projects demonstrate the University’s role in creating innovative and sustainable focused building

SGS installed over 450 solar modules on the roof of both the IDEA

projects that have broad community, operational, research

and Design buildings. SGS also employs several Dalhousie engineering

and teaching objectives.

graduates and coop students who worked on the project. SGS stated that this project was an incredible opportunity to partner with Dalhousie and become part of the future of Sexton Campus.

3

In the Design building, rainwater is collected from roof drains, is filtered, and stored in a 25,000 litre fiberglass tank and then will be used for toilet flushing. The system reduces the use of potable water and slows and diverts water from stormwater systems. Sampling valves will be added to allow further research of treatment systems.

An extensive green roof, located on the Design building, provides biodiversity, heat island, and stormwater benefits. The roof is designed for testing various planting species, green roof applications, stormwater retention, and evaporative cooling trends.

Renovations of existing buildings included upgrades of mechanical and cooling systems to reduce once through use of water and reducing electricity by adding variable speed drives and other energy features.

Building envelopes were rehabilitated including a full building envelope upgrade of one of the buildings which included addition of triplepane windows and insulation upgrades. Water testing standards were deployed to ensure systems met performance expectations.

4 2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

13

Innovation, Research and Demonstrations

Innovation, recherche et démonstrations

The key to overcoming housing challenges is having better housing information.

More research and data will inform evidence-based policy and programs, leading to better housing outcomes for all Canadians.

Des recherches et des données plus nombreuses permettront l’adoption de politiques et de programmes fondés sur des données probantes, ce qui se traduira par de meilleurs résultats en matière de logement pour tous les Canadiens.

To learn more about our Innovation, Research and Demonstrations initiatives and how to get involved, please visit cmhc-nhs.ca

Pour en apprendre davantage sur nos initiatives en matière d’innovation, de recherche et de démonstration et sur la manière de faire votre part, veuillez consulter le schl-snl.ca

NET-ZERO & MICRO-GRIDS SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAICS

14

BATTERY STORAGE

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

COMBINED HEAT & POWER GENERATORS

MONITORING & CONTROL

ENGINEERING & DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION & PROJECT MANAGEMENT

www.solarglobalsolutions.com

HEBRON HEIGHTS RESIDENTIAL CENTRE Retrofit makes business case for Passive House construction

The goal of this project was to reach the PHIUS+ 2015 standard, which has slightly different requirements than the typical Passive House criteria. PHIUS is a distinctly different organization from the Passive House Institute; it is US-based and has worked to shape its database and requirements to the North American market and climate. One of the

In 2016, an abandoned youth care building in Hebron, Nova Scotia, a small community on the outskirts of Yarmouth, was acquired with the intent to retrofit and repurpose as affordable housing, primarily geared towards senior residents. The nine-unit building was retrofitted to Passive House standards as part of the Investment in Affordable Housing program to implement high energy performance design in new and existing properties.

criticisms that some designers have about the Passive House Institute is that it can be too Eurocentric. For this reason, many professionals looking to get certified as Passive House designers seek training through PHIUS instead of, or in addition to, the Passive House Institute.

The entire building was stripped to its framing and passive elements were integrated. The building’s insulation values were substantially increased in the ceiling, walls and the slab measuring R-values of R103, R63 and R27, respectively. The average u-value of the windows measured in at 1.19 W/m2K, and the air change rate was measured to be 0.66 air changes per hour (ACH). It is important to note that this air change rate would not have met the Passive House Institute

By Housing Nova Scotia, with editing support from EGP Megan Lloyd.

certification criteria, but, was acceptable for the PHIUS + 2015 standard.

1 Additional Sources: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

New Energy Efficient and Affordable Housing Opened in Yarmouth. Created January 17, 2017. https://www.cmhcschl.gc.ca/en/media-newsroom/news-releases/2017/ new-energy-efficient-and-affordable-housing-opened-inyarmouth. Accessed August 08, 2018.

In addition, the building has an air to water heat pump with a minimum

Passive House Institute. Criteria for the Passive House, EnerPHit and PHI Low Energy Building Standard, Version 9F. Darmstadt, Germany, Revised 2016.

climate. Tempeff’s ERV makes use of Dual-Core technology allowing for

PHIUS. PHIUS and Passive Building in the United States.

2018. http://www.phius.org/about-passive-house-instituteus/phius-and-passive-building-in-the-united-states.

Accessed August 16, 2018.

1 - North view of Hebron Heights.

2 - The south elevation. The building envelope was replaced to increase insulation levels substantially.

COP* of 3.5 for primary heating plus a high efficiency, propane fired condensing boiler for backup. The building also has a high efficiency central ERV** system, built in Canada by Tempeff, which acts as the building’s lungs. An ERV not only recovers heat, but also factors in humidity making it the best choice for occupant comfort in a cold, humid continuous fresh air supply and frost-free operation in this climate.

Humidistat controls are installed with continuous exhaust fans in the kitchens and bathrooms to further increase occupant comfort. These two systems working together provide high indoor air quality, adequate heating, cooling as well as the ability to keep humidity levels within a comfortable range year-round. This project cut space heating needs by up to 85% compared to conventional building, costing approximately $30 per month to heat each unit.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

15

C

B

N

63.0

Lower floor plan: three, two- bedroom units and one studio.

A

Site plan

N

A - Existing residential B - Exsiting paving C - Existing parking

There are six primary factors which make up the success of the project: 1. LIGHT and AIR The building has considerable southern exposure and large windows, providing significant daylight to each unit; 95% of occupied floor area is within 7m of an operable window.

Main floor plan: five, two-bedroom units.

Energy Star/DLC-certified LED fixtures and Energy Star rated LED lamps are used for additional lighting.

Exterior fixtures are automatically operated via a dawndusk photocell. Projected annual energy consumption for lighting in the building is 3.21 kWh/m2.

Ventilation and dehumidification is provided via an ERV system as discussed above. The system meets and/ or exceeds NBC, ASHRAE, HRAI, and Health Canada guidelines and regulations.

2. OCCUPANT WELLNESS The building was designed using locally available building materials and practices to achieve high energy performance objectives.

Comfort

and

air

quality

are

enhanced

when buildings are built to such standards, including improvements to HVAC and materials that minimize noise.

Furthermore, the site is located adjacent to Doctors Lake and provides plenty of outdoor space so occupants can enjoy the surrounding landscape. Simultaneously, the property retains access to services and gathering places like the Hebron Recreation Complex, local school, and restaurants, all within a 5km radius, allowing the residents to stay connected with their community.

16

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

2

STATE OF THE ART VENTILATION FOR EVERY COMMUNITY

Leading Builders and Engineers Team Up with Tempeff in Support of Affordable Housing Needs.

Tempeff is empowering builders and engineers with the latest in ventilation equipment that produces the most in sustainability, savings, and most of all—healthy green building environment solutions. Tempeff North America’s Dual Core regenerative technology that offers up to 90% sensible efficiency without any requirement for an energy robbing defrost strategy. Other available technologies offer much lower efficiency due to frosting in colder weather. The Dual Core design is significantly more energy efficient in all conditions, so the payback periods are attractive.

C

Find out how you can get the energy recovery to suit your needs at tempeffnorthamerica.com

Turning Up the Heat on Energy Recovery 2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

17

3. WATER CONSERVATION 3 - Slab insulation under construction.

4 - South-west view with air-to-water heat pump unit at top of stairs.

All plumbing fixtures installed meet North American quality and conservation standards, resulting in approximately 20% less water used as compared to standard fixtures.

Energy Star laundry equipment is installed to further limit consumption. This has led to a projected potable water

Project Team: Natalie Leonard, Passive House Designer – Passive House E-Design Ramzi Kawar, Project Manager, Manager Building Design – Housing NS James Staunton, Construction Project Manager – Housing NS Matthew Conrad, Architect – Housing NS Frederick Drebot, Mechanical Engineer – Housing NS Tapan Katwala, Electrical Engineer – Housing NS Dumac Energy, Consulting Engineers (Electrical) MCA Consultants, Consulting Engineers (Mechanical) Equilibrium Consulting, Consulting Engineers (Mechanical)

consumption of 0.7 litres/m2/occupant/year.

4. MATERIALS AND RESOURCES Most of the construction materials used were locally sourced, reducing the carbon footprint. Less environmentally intensive insulation, such as blown cellulose and mineral wool, were also chosen to minimize the overall impact of the project.

Construction costs of this retrofit were compared to what would have been needed to comply with NBC standards. The Passive House approach was found to cost 6% more up front with an estimated returnon-investment of less than 10 years. This clearly documents the business case for Passive House construction and is being used to encourage more construction of this type in the future, for both new builds and renovations.

Remote monitoring of the electricity consumption is also being used to solidify long-term consumption estimates. With electricity rates and operations costs steadily increasing, Passive House provides a financially sensible and environmentally responsible option for moving forward.

3 4 5. ENERGY – PAST AND FUTURE Local materials and a southern orientation help ensure lower life cycle costs for this building. Also contributing to resource conservation are the exterior sensored lighting system, and the pumps and circulators that use Variable Frequency Drives.

Similarly, Outside Air Temperature sensors optimize space and domestic hot water heating. Lastly, all appliances are Energy Star rated and all electricity consumption is monitored remotely. Cumulatively, these approaches and technologies are projected to minimize the project’s annual energy consumption to 47.41 kWh/m2. Rough-ins were also created to allow a minimum 18kW solar photovoltaic installation in the future. Such an addition could produce roughly 58% of the building’s total annual energy consumption.

6. EDUCATION AND INFORMATION SHARING Staff and occupants were provided training on what makes this building special from both design and user perspectives.

This article was edited with help from EGP Megan Lloyd, Intern Architect

Those who call this building home see firsthand how it

and Passive House Designer, RHAD Architects.

works and can attest to the benefits over conventional design. The occupants belong to a small community, so this

*COP – Coefficient of Performance

building and their experiences touch a lot of families directly

**ERV – Energy Recovery Ventilation

and encourage efficiency elsewhere in their lives. The maintenance staff are also involved to discuss and reinforce these ideas, as well as share new information with occupants and community members.

18

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

YOUR LEED V4 QUICK-REFERENCE OUR 2018 PARTNERS SITE | LANDSCAPING | RAINWATER HARVESTING >Molok® Deep Collection™ System >Unilock >Wishbone Industries Ltd. STRUCTURE & EXTERIOR ENVELOPE >Alumicor Building Excellence >Architek SBP Inc. >Bailey Metal Products Ltd. >Euroshield® >Hydrotech >LiveRoof >Thames Valley Brick & Tile >Tremco

CANADIAN DIRECTORY OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR SUSTAINABLE, HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDING THERMAL & WINDOWS >Cascadia Windows & Doors >Eco Insulating Glass Inc. >EuroLine Windows® >Inline Fiberglass Ltd. >Innotech Windows + Doors >LiteZone™ Insulating Glass >Pollard Windows Inc. INTERIOR FINISHES >CBR Products >Columbia Forest Products >Forbo Flooring Systems >Interface >Nora Systems, Inc. >Masonite Architectural >Shaw Contract Group ELECTRICAL | PLUMBING | HVAC | RENEWABLES >Acuity Brands >Aqua-Tech

>Elkay >KIKO Water Systems >Nova Sun Power >Simple Solar >Sloan Valve >Taco Comfort Solutions >Tate Access Floors >Tempeff North America >Uponor >Viessmann Manufacturing Company Inc. GREEN DESIGN SUPPORT + PROFESSIONALS >Canadian Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute >Diamond Schmitt Architects >Efficiency Nova Scotia >FABRIQ architecture >Pomerleau >RJC Engineers

https://sabmagazine.com/product-directory/ 2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

19

THE LIGHTFOOT & WOLFVILLE WINERY Building reflects owners’ philosophy of harmony with the earth

1 The Lightfoot & Wolfville Winery creates a memorable experience for guests. Situated at the centre of the organic, bio-dynamic vineyard, the building affords visitors a magnificent view of Cape Blomidon and the Minas Basin at the east end of the Annapolis Valley.

The connection of people to the land is a key component to making great wine, so making a strong connection between the building and its ‘place’ was an overarching philosophy during the design process. Michael and Jocelyn Lightfoot’s philosophy of making great wine extends to every aspect of running the winery. They wanted the building to be an expression of its place.

The form is reminiscent of the local agricultural heritage, while the materials and details offer a refinement that looks to the future as well as the past.

ECONOMIC / SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY

2

The client has a philosophy to farm sustainably and that philosophy extends to all aspects of their business including the construction and operation of their new winery. There was a keen desire for the project to enhance the local economy.

Almost all the construction labour was from the immediate community.

All wood products except the heavy timber elements, which came from BC, were sourced from Maritime lumber, much of it including sawn lumber, for flooring, interior wall finishes, floor and roof decking came from the local mill 3kms from the site. Exterior siding was sourced from a New Brunswick supplier. All millwork items including retail merchandising, specialty doors, washroom millwork were produced by a local millwork shop in the community.

Specialty ironworks were created by a local artisan. The landscape design and implementation was completed by a local gardener. Plants native to Nova Scotia were used to limit the need for irrigation once the planting beds are established.

1 - Board and batten siding helps to connect the building to the site.

2 - The building follows local agricultural heritage but is detailed to meet the demands of a modern sustainably-managed business.

20

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

3 Owner: Lightfoot & Wolfville Vineyards Architect: Vincent den Hartog, Architect Interior Design: InSite Design Structural Engineer: Larry Honey, PEng. Mechanical: Fundy Engineering Electrical Engineer: Barber Engineering Contractor: Gaudet Building Contractors Ltd. Photos: Julian Parkinson Photography

The stone for the massive fireplace was quarried in Nova Scotia, and built by local mason, Pictou County Stone. By using an adaptive design process, the products and talents of local economy were able to be showcased.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY The Vineyard is Certified Organic as well as Bio-Dynamic, so the owners have a deep rooted philosophy of running their business in harmony with the earth.

The soil is the most important element to making great wine. No pressure treated lumber is used anywhere in the project. Plastics are very limited. The emphasis was on natural, traditional materials; wood, metal, glass.

ECONOMY OF MATERIALS One strategy towards reducing the environmental toll of our built environment is to be efficient with materials.

4

In the winery there is an economy of

materials use. The structure is the finish. There is not a plethora of finish materials draped over the bones of this building adding embedded energy.

The heavy timber structure and nail laminated decking for floors and roof provide structure, finish and fire rating all in one material. The concrete floor slabs are also the finished floor.

Wood was the natural material choice for structural systems and finishes to pay homage to the heritage of agricultural buildings of the Annapolis Valley.

Wood is featured in every capacity; structure, exterior and interior wall finishes, flooring, ceilings, furniture. Most of the materials were sourced and fabricated locally, fulfilling one of the key design goals, that the building should provide visitors an experience of this ‘place’.

3 - The Vineyard is Certified Organic as well as Bio-Dynamic, and local materials and labour were used.

4 - Finish materials were minimized to reduce embodied energy.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

21

6

5

7

5 and 6 - Views of the foyer which is not heated or used in winter to save energy.

7 - One of the reception areas with the glass enclosed overflow space beyond, which is used from spring to fall.

Board and batten siding clads the exterior of the building. The large

Heavy timber post and beam combined with old-fashioned nail

barn doors on the front of the building slide open to reveal the

laminated timber floor, used in the public spaces (barrel cellar, foyer,

foyer during open hours. The large foyer serves several purposes.

retail tasting bar), provided structure, interior finish and the required

It is a comfortable place to orient oneself, and transition from the

fire rating all with one material. In the ‘back of house’ spaces, (kitchens,

bustle of vehicular travel to the tranquility of enjoying the vineyard.

washrooms, storage) engineered lumber was used for structure

It is a meeting place at the centre of the building, and at times

covered with gypsum-board.

serves as overflow reception area for large groups.

Many of the spaces in the Winery are large to accommodate hundreds The massive Rumford fireplace on the opposite side of the foyer

of people, but the warmth of the wood finishes makes them comfortable

beckons the visitor through to the back deck to discover the

even when only a handful of people are present.

breathtaking views of the vineyard, the Minas Basin and Cape Blomidon beyond.

OPERATING ECONOMY The winery is a seasonal business, being very busy from May to October,

Flexibility was another key design goal. There are reception

but much quieter through the winter months. Another sustainability

rooms of every type and size to accommodate a variety of

strategy was to make the building flexible and expandable. The use of a

different guest groups; a wine writer arrived for a private tasting,

marquis tent accommodates the large group events that happen during

a bus tour, large groups for a private event, and individual visitors

the warm season while expending no heating energy for the winter. The

looking to enjoy a food/wine pairing while taking in the views of

tent is removed for the off season.

the vineyard.

The foyer is actually a non-heated space that is fully opened during the Each reception room has its own character. The walls of the

warm season allowing guests an experience an outdoor atmosphere.

barrel cellar are rough sawn and stained dark to complement the

However the glass enclosure provides an additional overflow space

earthy feeling of the traditional underground barrel cellar. The

during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. The foyer also separates

walls of the main floor are lightly sanded and of a lighter hue to

the building into two zones, one that houses the activities that go on

provide a more refined atmosphere in the retail tasting bar.

year round, and the other that houses spaces that can be effectively closed down for the winter season. This approach helps reduce the

The Tidal room located upstairs, is finished with smooth, white

operating energy. Careful planning and thoughtful design are key to

boards providing a light airy atmosphere that complements the

creating a sustainable environment.

vista of the Minas Basin.

22

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

CATEGORY SPONSORS

1 5

2

6

3 7

Visit https://sabmagazine.com/ awards/winners2018/ for complete details.

For details on sponsoring the Canadian Green Building Awards contact dgriffith@sabmagazine.com.

4

8 201

winning projects G IN

ARCHITECTURAL

AWARDS

D

NATIONAL SPONSORS NATIONAL SPONSORS

G EN BUIL

The Awards presentation of the 2018 Canadian Green Building Awards, the annual program of Sustainable Architecture & Building [SABMag], took place in Toronto on June 4, 2018 where the winning firms were recognized.

We especially thank our sponsors who make the Awards possible.

ADIAN

RE

The winners of the 2018 Canadian Green Building Awards

N CA

1 Normand Deschênes [left] of National Sponsor Masonite Architectural presents the Institutional [Small] Award for the Centre de découverte to Daniel Smith of Smith Vigeant Architectes.

2 Rebecca Mallinson [third left] of Category Sponsor Enbridge presents the Commercial/ Industrial [Large] Award for the One York Tower to [l to r] : Phil Bastow of The Mitchell Partnership Inc., Alan Murphy of Green Reason, and John Gillanders, Dermot Sweeny, David Copeland, and Peter Kurkjia, all of Sweeny &Co Architects Inc. 3 Normand Deschênes [centre] of National Sponsor Masonite Architectural presents the Commercial/Industrial [Small] Award for the UBC Campus Energy Centre to Charles Marshall [left] and Raul Dominquez of DIALOG. 4 Normand Deschênes [second left] of National Sponsor Masonite Architectural presents the Commercial/Industrial [Small] Award for the Ecology Action Centre Headquarters to [l to r] : Jordan Willett of Solterre Design, Maggy Burns of the Ecology Action Centre [Managing Director Emeritus], Emma Norton of the Ecology Action Centre, and Patrick Jardine of Tekton Design + Build.

5 Bob Prince [centre] of Invizij Architects Inc. receives the Existing Building Upgrade Award for the Harvey Woods Lofts from Category Sponsor Inline Fiberglass represented by Gary Mackin [left] and Victor Kowalczyk.

6 SABMag publisher Don Griffith [second left], representing National Sponsor the Canadian Precast Prestressed Concrete Institute, presents the Institutional [Large] Award for the Langara College Science & Technology Building to [l to r] Wes Wilson, Tomer Diamant, Mahsa Majidian, and Aidan Mitchelmore of Teeple Architects.

7 L to r: Andrew Arifuzzaman of the University of Toronto Scarborough, and Nigel Tai and John Featherstone, both of Diamond Schmitt Architects, receive the Institutional [Large] Award from SABMag publisher Don Griffith, representing National Sponsor the Canadian Precast Prestressed Concrete Institute.

Unable to attend were: DIALOG, winner of the Commercial/Industrial [Small] Award for the UBC Campus Energy Centre; and Landform Architecture, winner of the Institutional [Small] Award for the Okanagan Child Care Centre. Photos: Vuk Dragojevic.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

23

Are you a student or early in your career, looking for a like-minded group of creative individuals focused on building a sustainable future? Then become part of something bigger as an Emerging

What is an EGP? Emerging Green Professionals are the future green leaders in your community. We are an innovative, interdisciplinary network of young professionals across Canada working to make a difference. Our Atlantic EGP Chapter is growing, and we want to engage you.

Who Is Eligible?

You are eligible to join the Atlantic Chapter if you are a: • Full-time student, or • 30 years of age or younger, or

Green Professional (EGP).

• New to the industry within five years, and • Committed to building your career in the Green Building Industry.

What Can We Offer?

In an industry revolutionizing resource efficiency and environmentally friendly practices, we are a valuable resource in the development of

What Do You Bring?

student and young professional leaders. As an EGP, you will:

Whether you want to be involved at the Committee level, or just kept in the loop on upcoming green events, there’s a spot

Make connections with other leaders in the Atlantic Chapter across a

at the table for everyone.

variety of disciplines. Our diverse events stimulate the sharing of ideas and resources, creating a network that turns concept into action. The

Each of our members offer a fresh perspective on how green

EGP Atlantic Committee has developed a series of upcoming events to

building can grow in Atlantic Canada. We are an inclusive

connect you, from networking sessions to hackathons, green building

group looking for people of all disciplines to share their ideas

conferences to educational outreach. You can even check us out at

and visions of the future. If you are a positive individual who

Nocturne!

wants to turn ideas into action through events, education and other initiatives, we want to meet you.

Access experts in the Atlantic green building community. Our local networking events, including Green Jobs 101 – Speed Connecting,

What’s Next?

provide you with the opportunity to speak directly to the leaders

Ready to take the leap? For more information, and to become

impacting local industry. Beyond interaction at our industry events,

a member, visit us at the link below. We look forward to

EGPs are eligible for mentorship opportunities through EGP Mentor

meeting you at one of our upcoming events!

Webinars.

Earn recognition for your accomplishments as an EGP. As a member,

www.cagbc.org/CAGBC/Chapters/Emerging_Green_

you have the opportunity to get involved at the Atlantic EGP

Professionals.aspx

Committee level to help shape green building in our region. Through the Committee, you represent EGPs at a variety of events and in

Meet the Team!

professional settings. Speaking opportunities can also be part of these

The

events, where EGPs are able to voice their ideas and platforms to an

professionals with a variety of backgrounds and goals. We’re

audience of industry members.

working hard to provide value to your EGP membership and

EGP

Atlantic

Committee

is

composed

of

young

are always open to new ideas. Come chat with us at our next Beyond events, EGPs are eligible for a variety of awards through the

event!

CaGBC including the Students Leading Sustainability Award (SLSA) and Emerging Green Leader CaGBC Leadership Award (EGL).

The

EGP Atlantic Committee members from left to right: Hannah

SLSA recognizes a student project that demonstrates leadership,

Cameron, Sam Cheshire, Matthew Glynn, Prasad Vusirika,

innovation, inspiration and a creative vision for the future of sustainable

Mahbubur Rahman, Megan Lloyd, and Jacob Budgell. Missing:

design in the field of green building and communities. The EGL is an

Shannon O’Connor, Alexandra Kelter and Meagan Lake.

award ideal for the EGP who is known as a leader among their peers.

Build your career through the EGP Atlantic Chapter. EGP membership

Shannon O’Connor: Shannon is a Civil Engineering student at

is what you make of it. Our EGP network provides you with resources

Dalhousie University, with the goal of pursuing a profession

and opportunities to mold your career to your short- and long-

that will support green change and create a sustainable

term goals. Our educational tools were developed to give EGPs an

society. Shannon enjoys dedicating her time to projects that

industry advantage by fast tracking professional development and

will impact the lives of others in a positive way and increase

accreditation in Canada.

environmental awareness.

Other benefits for being a member include Chapter voting rights,

Jacob Budgell: Jacob is a residential carpenter studying Civil

discounts on CaGBC education and conferences, and more.

Engineering at Dalhousie University. He is working towards a career in Timber construction and project management. Jacob is driven by social connectivity and collaboration.

24

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

Pictou County Stone is a family business specialising in stone work and wood fired fireplaces, ovens and heaters.

We wish Jocelyn and Mike all the best for their Lightfoot & Wolfville Winery

Pictou County Stone Ltd.

Masonry | Wood Energy | Natural Building

902-331-0011 www.pictoucountystone.com EGP Atlantic Committee members from left to right: Hannah Cameron, Sam Cheshire, Matthew Glynn, Prasad Vusirika, Mahbubur Rahman, Megan Lloyd, and Jacob Budgell.

Missing: Shannon O’Connor, Alexandra Kelter and Meagan Lake.

1/9pictoustone.indd 1

8/28/18 11:04 AM

Sam Cheshire: Sam is a Mechanical Engineer-in-Training who came to Atlantic Canada from Australia in 2016. His interest in sustainable design started while studying at Monash University, and continues to grow through new and retrofit projects. Sam is currently working towards his LEED Green Associate accreditation and aims to become a LEED Accredited Professional in the future.

Megan Lloyd: Megan Lloyd is an Intern Architect and Passive House Designer at RHAD Architects. She has always been drawn to the intersection of sustainability and great design, and has been finding many opportunities to hone these skills since graduating in 2016 with her Master’s in Architecture. Later this year, Megan will write the final exams to become licensed as an architect in Nova Scotia and is looking forward

Attract new tenants.

Impress current ones.

to her future in green architecture.

Prasad Vusirika: Prasad Vusirika is an Electrical Engineer-in-Training who came to Nova Scotia in 2017 from India. His main areas of interest are power quality and smart grids. He is also keen to contribute to areas such as energy efficiency lighting through sustainable design. He looks forward to receiving his P.Eng next year and becoming a LEED Accredited professional in the future.

Partner with Efficiency Nova Scotia for fewer maintenance issues and a more comfortable environment. We’ll help your building grow into a bustling community of long-term residents and businesses.

Learn more at efficiencyns.ca/commercial

Hannah Cameron: Hannah Cameron is a Civil Engineer-in-Training and recent graduate of Queen’s University. Outside of the classroom, she has explored green building through the Queen’s Solar Design Team, Queen’s Architecture Conference, and TimberFever. Hannah is currently working as a Building Sciences Consultant at WSP and looks forward to helping the field grow in Atlantic Canada.

Matthew Glynn: Matthew Glynn is in his final year of study in Civil Engineering at Dalhousie University and has been fortunate to gain valuable, hands-on experience through his employment working in real property for the federal government. His work has allowed him to pursue

Subscribe to

SABMAG DIGITAL

his passion of developing carbon reduction strategies to infrastructure and to engage in consultation with indigenous communities. In his spare time, Matthew enjoys teaching yoga.

Mahbubur Rahman: Mahbubur Rahman came from Bangladesh to Halifax for higher study five years ago, and has since obtained his Master’s in

Your access to SABMag in all formats.

Civil Engineering from Dalhousie University. He is currently working as Project Manager of Facilities Management at Dalhousie University.

Mahbubur is a LEED Green Associate.

Other members include: Meagan Lake and Alexandra Kelter.

iTunes: http://apple.co/2cTFKhM Pocketmags: http://bit.ly/2gsGA7T Google Play: http://bit.ly/2hpNfwV 2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

25

BUILDING A BETTER TOMORROW City of Mount Pearl sets eye on future with new recreation centre

By Cassie Pittman

The City of Mount Pearl is built on a foundation of progression. That foundation is what drives the City’s ongoing commitment to developing sustainable infrastructure.

With over 23,000 residents and 1,100 businesses, Mount Pearl is focused on building beyond basic. For example, it’s not uncommon to see electric vehicle charging stations outside City facilities and Mount Pearl is home to Beclin Business Park, the first private Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified Business Park in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Today, Mount Pearl strives to develop all infrastructure with the future in mind, using innovation in design and focusing on LEED features. This focus has resulted in the successful build of three state of the art recreation facilities that enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses.

26

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

Summit Centre – Reaching the Peak of Performance Just as its name suggests, the Summit Centre was built for peak performance as Mount Pearl’s flagship recreation facility. With 60,000 square feet, this facility houses aquatic, fitness and weight-training centres, an indoor walking track, multi-purpose rooms and retail space.

During planning and construction, the Centre was designed to LEED Silver standards. In striving toward this standard, the building incorporated numerous environmentally-friendly features.

The Summit has a focus on efficiency in heating and operations. As an alternative to standard HVAC systems, the Summit utilizes a geo exchange system that allows the facility to transfer heat without combustion, creating efficiency and reducing heating costs. In addition, the facility was built with a heat recovery system that recaptures lost heat from shower waste water and diverts it back into the facilities’ heating system.

The Summit uses a state-of-the-art rainwater collection system that collects water from the roof and reuses it in the facility to reduce water consumption.

Efficient lighting was also a focus for the facility which is equipped with motion sensor lighting throughout the building and uses only LED lightbulbs in the parking lot that have resulted in a savings of almost half from traditional high intensity discharge street light fixtures.

2 3

1 The City believes in tracking and transparency, providing a

Campia Gymnastics Facility - Flipping the Script on Convention

“windows on the world’ display that allows the public to view

Constructed in 2015 (Opened in 2016), the new Campia Gymnastics

the buildings energy and water consumption usage and patterns.

facility welcomes thousands of gymnasts each year. There’s more

Overall, when all of the LEED-related features of the facility are in

to this 12,000 square foot facility than meets the eye. The open

operation, the energy savings are modelled to be in the order of

concept, expansive space is modern in design and construction

40%-45%, realizing a significant reduction in costs.

and was built with efficiency and energy in mind. It includes many LEED features but primarily it’s the facilities heat pump technology

The Glacier Arena - A New Definition of Chill

that contributes to low energy costs that result in more reasonable

Neighbour to the Summit, the Glacier is Mount Pearl’s hockey and

operating costs overall.

skating arena, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. Inside, there are two arenas, including a large stadium arena, 10 dressing

Mount Pearl has its eyes set on the future. A future bright with

rooms, viewing booths, canteens, training rooms, and heated

innovation, resulting in a better quality of life for all its residents.

seating for spectators.

That starts with innovation in design and a responsibility to build with the future in mind. As a City, Mount Pearl will continue to focus

The Glacier Arena and Summit Centre benefit from their

on building facilities that are rich in service but efficient in daily

neighbouring locations. Generally, arenas pump excess heat to

operation. For more information on these facilities or Mount Pearl’s

the outside, but not in Mount Pearl. Because of its proximity,

bold plans for the future visit www.mountpearl.ca.

excess heat from the Glacier arena is sent underground to the Summit Centre to help supplement its heating system.

Cassie Pittman is Manager of Marketing, Communications and Economic Development at the City of Mount Pearl.

Also benefiting from a rainwater collection system, the Glacier keeps a close eye on water consumption and has reduced overall consumption significantly since its integration.

1 - The Summit Centre.

2 - Main entrance to the Glacier Arena.

3 - The aquatic area completes the variety of facilities offered at the Summit Centre.

Arguably the most impressive design feature of the Glacier Arena is its ECO CHILL system used for the arena’s ice surface. Built to achieve LEED certification, the ECO CHILL system provides greatly reduced energy costs, lowered greenhouse gas emissions and reduced life cycle costs.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

27

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

BUILDING

LASTING CHANGE

2019 MAY 28 – 30, 2019 VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE

28

For sponsorship opportunities contact | Sarah Burns | 613-288-8097 | sburns@cagbc.org

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

CASE STUDY:

Fredericton High School 100kW Grid-Tied Rooftop Solar PV Project New Brunswick’s largest Apart from the generation of clean energy, the PV installation will act as a learning tool for students.

On Tuesday, December 12, 2017, the New Brunswick government unveiled a 100.1 kW grid-tied solar photovoltaic array installed atop Fredericton High School.

This location was chosen for the show case project due to the superb solar irradiance levels in Fredericton, as well as the large roof size available.

Over the next five years, the New Brunswick government is planning on spending approximately $101 million in energy efficiency initiatives to help bring awareness to renewable energy resources in New Brunswick and help battle climate change. This investment is in addition to the $51 million contributed by the federal government’s Low Carbon Economy Fund, as well as another potential $82 million investment from NB Power.

Along with this project, New Brunswick has added two electric school busses to its fleet and, with the rise of interest in electric vehicles, 15 e-charging stations have been added to the provincial infrastructure.

Solar Global Solutions Ltd. (SGS) of Halifax provided turnkey engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for the solar project.

SGS has over 30 years of

experience successfully developing projects for residential, commercial, institutional, First Nations, government, and utility clients. As the first large-scale solar installation in New Brunswick, the project will be carefully monitored using a system that allows performance to be tracked in real-time and compared on an hourly, daily, monthly and annual basis.

At peak performance, the 278, 360-watt Made-in-Canada solar panels will produce 100.1 kW of power, and 118,300 kWh of clean energy annually. On sunny days excess power can be transferred back to the New Brunswick power grid to be used by others. In addition to the positive environmental impact, it will also give the students an opportunity to learn about energy grids, solar photovoltaics, renewable energy

New Brunswick Environment and Local Government Minister Serge Rousselle stated that by 2030 all government facilities are to be carbon neutral. These energy changing programs are giving the people of New Brunswick options to look at alternative methods of obtaining clean, reliable energy.

Net Metering in New Brunswick The Fredericton High School solar project is installed under NB Power’s Net-Metering program. Under Net-Metering, excess energy produced by renewable resources cannot be sold back to NB Power directly. Instead, any excess electricity produced during the billing period will become a credit towards the energy bill. This allows commercial and residential customers that over-produce energy to gain credit throughout the summer months and then in the winter can save on their bills when their solar panels may not be producing as much power due to overcast conditions or snow that may be blanketing the panels.

economics and give them a practical experience to enhance their learning.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

29

The panels angled at 60 degrees to optimize energy yield and snow shedding in winter.

Technical Overview and Solar Array Characteristics The 278 panels are installed in 15, 3x6 racking segments and in one 2x4 racking segment. The racking system allows the angle of the array to be adjusted throughout the year to optimize energy production.

Energy and Greenhouse Gas Savings The Fredericton High School solar project is expected to generate 118,300 kWh annually which will reduce the New Brunswick government’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by approximately

The solar project is expected to generate 118,300 kWh annually.

34.3 tonnes of CO2 annually. At peak energy production, this is equivalent to the average car driving 136,700 km, and would require 164 trees to consume and offset the carbon emissions.

Overview of Solar Company Solar Global Solutions (SGS), previously PoleCo Ltd., is a private

Bringing a client-centered approach to every project, SGS

company founded in 1988 in Halifax and, as noted above, has over

offers a full suite of services to help customers develop,

30 years of design and installation experience. SGS is part of the

implement and operate new distributed energy projects. SGS

Cartmill Group of Companies including LED Roadway Lighting,

can assist clients with initial project development, feasibility

C-Therm Technologies, Rep-Tech Enterprises, and Think Tank

assessment, environmental impact, funding applications,

Water Heaters.

system specification, utility interconnection agreements and operations, and maintenance support among other services.

SGS’

multi-disciplinary

Procurement,

and

team

delivers

Construction

(EPC)

turn-key and

Engineering,

Operation

and

Solar Global Solutions

Maintenance (O&M) services for both grid-tied and off-grid

info@solarglobalsolutions.com

renewable energy projects. SGS has supplied solar systems globally

www.solarglobalsolutions.com

including projects throughout North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. These systems have been utilized in various applications including: micro-grids, net-zero energy buildings, gridtied and off-grid solar power systems, grid-tied and off-grid battery storage, off-grid street lighting, and off-grid traffic beacons.

30

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

MOVING TOWARDS CARBON NEUTRAL How Stantec and BGIS are helping in the reduction of GHG emissions in Atlantic Canada with Deep Energy Retrofit Studies Greenhouse gases (GHGs) trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, just as the glass of

Performance Targets: The study requires an in-depth

a greenhouse keeps warm air inside. Human activity increases the amount of GHG

investigation of design strategies that substantially

in the atmosphere. As a result, more heat is being trapped and the temperature

improve the energy performance and reduce the

of the planet is increasing. Under the Paris Agreement, Canada has committed to

energy cost and GHG emissions of the subject building.

reducing GHG emissions by 30% below 2005 levels by 2030. This indicator tracks

A number of the study requirements entail identifying

Canada’s progress towards meeting its target1.

four (4) design bundles of energy efficiency measures (EEMs) to achieve the following performance targets:

Buildings are one of the biggest contributors to GHG emissions and energy

reduction retrofits to existing buildings. A Carbon Neutral Study is the initial steps

1. Minimal Departmental Standard: Improvement beyond NECB 2011 Requirements

to achieve this goal for existing buildings.

This target requires a feasible bundle of EEMs that

efficient buildings is one of the most affordable ways to cut emissions. To achieve this, we have to build more efficiently and also implement energy and GHG

reduces the building’s energy consumption by 24% Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions (BGIS) is currently working on a number

regarding the requirements of the National Energy

of building retrofit studies across Canada and has engaged Stantec to provide

Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB) 2011. In meeting

detailed energy assessments, building performance modelling, and performance

this target, the building will achieve energy savings

engineering services, to support potential upgrades to existing buildings. Stantec

of 24% with respect to how it would perform, if it

is involved with Carbon Neutral Study projects across Canada and is currently

observed NECB 2011 requirements.

working on 18 large office buildings here in Atlantic Canada that range in size,

all performance improving recommendations which is the crucial element of

2. Highest GHG Reductions while achieving a Positive Net Present Value (NPV) within 25 years

the reports in providing informative recommendations. The results of these

This target requires identifying a feasible bundle of

investigative analyses provide the decision making tools to move these existing

EEMs that reduces the building’s carbon footprint

buildings toward carbon neutrality. To achieve this goal performance targets

(annual GHG emissions) as much as possible, while

were set for the study.

producing a positive net-present-value (NPV) for

age and even heritage status. The studies involve the creation of a highly defined 25-Year Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) of the current building and

the project when evaluated over a 25-year lifecycle.

This option evaluates bundles of EEMs and prioritizes energy-conservation strategies over onsite, clean (renewable and non-GHG-emitting) energy generation.

3. Carbon Neutral This target requires identifying a feasible bundle of EEMs that achieves Carbon Neutrality. The bundle of EEMs reduces the carbon footprint of the building to net-zero when aggregated over an annual period without resorting to carbon offsets or renewable energy purchasing. This option prioritizes feasible energy-conservation strategies to minimize the more expensive, clean energy generation.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

31

4. Best Value This target requires identifying a bundle of EEMs that

Summary of Building Analysis: As an example, one of the studies that has been

provides the best compromise for the building in

completed was an 8-storey office building of approximately 14,000 m2; it was

terms significant GHG reductions and overall project

built in the late 50’s and had significant alterations made in 1991. The results

feasibility. It considers factors such as NPV of savings,

were conducted before the performance Target 4: Best Value was added to

initial investment, and pertinent logistics, as it seeks to

the scope of work; therefore, our results are only on the first three (3) targets.

maximize GHG emission reductions. It will have a lower financial commitment than Target 3 and may have an EEM bundle that is a hybrid of Targets 1, 2 and/or 3.

Energy End-Use Breakdown

The methodology of this study is as follow: 1. Existing Building Condition Assessment: Survey

Pumps 1%

existing building conditions and systems; 2. Energy Model Development for Existing Building:

Humidification 4%

Fans 6% Interior equipment 7%

DHW 2%

Heating 36%

Calibrated Model on the building operation for a 25-year life cycle, and to develop a ‘Baseline Model’; 3.

Energy

Efficiency

Measure

(EEM)

Exterior light 6%

Selection;

Determine which EEMs are suitable and feasible based on potential energy performance improvements, cost, replacement schedule, project specific factors, and professional judgement.; 4. EEM and Bundle Energy Performance Analysis: Use the energy model to analyze the impact of each individual EEM on the building’s energy consumption and GHG emissions; 5. EEM and Bundle Financial Analysis: Perform a life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) considering Capital Replacement, Operation and Maintenance, Energy

Cooling 1%

Elevator 6% Interior lighting 31%

Costs and Residual Values to evaluate cost viability of each EEM for ultimate viability of the design options; and 6.

Discussion

and

Recommendations:

Annual GHG Emission Reductions of the Three Design Options Compared to the Baseline Model:

Detailed

descriptions of individual EEMs, final design options, and results of analyses.

These ground-breaking CNS projects have been and will continue to be a great experience for both BGIS and Stantec. Good communication is important between all team members because understanding the existing buildings and making collaborative informative decisions is key to the success of the studies. Having face to face meetings and multiple conference calls from BGIS ‘s building operator to Stantec’s on site assessors, energy modelers, report writers, data evaluators and project managers is essential to achieve the desired outcome. The experience emphasizes how important it is to thoroughly understand the existing buildings for the proposed upgrade with critical input from stakeholders. This process allowed the team to develop effective energy-saving strategies and to arrive at meaningful results and recommendations, which in turn support decision makers. Stantec and

Conclusion and Limitation

BGIS have projects currently underway with varying

As part of this study, limitations were recognized, and some assumptions were

degrees of completion. The studies are ongoing,

made. The assumptions allow a focus on the financial stipulations, energy

and we have provided information from one of our

parameters, and carbon footprint, which are under study, and will affect the

completed reports.

decision-making process with regards to forthcoming projects. The major assumptions and limitations are as follows:

32

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

Inspiring future generations for a sustainable world Park View Education Centre, Mid-Life Upgrades, Bridgewater NS

stantec.com

www.bgis.com

Cookie-cutter solutions to business problems don’t work anymore.

At BGIS, we’re strategic thinkers that help you see change as an opportunity.

Visit our website to see why we’re Canada’s leading Facilities Management Services company.

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

33

LCCA Results of Existing Building and Recommended Design Options:

Recommended Design Options for Each Performance Target:

Limitations • Atlantic Canada utilities set a 100-kW limit to the net-metering capacity

• Building occupancy and corresponding functional

allowed to clients who generate on-site electricity from renewable sources;

programming remain the same throughout the 25-year

• For the purposes of this study, we are holding plug loads constant on a per-

life cycle;

person basis;

• Waste water processing does not carry an emissions

• The study does not explore adjacent buildings for the purposes of heat-

factor;

recovery to benefit this building.

• For the purpose of this study, functional space programming will remain the same throughout the

Assumptions • The GHG emissions factor of the electrical grid does not change throughout the building’s forthcoming 25-year lifecycle.

• Water consumption does not carry an emission factor other than the energy consumption associated with hot water production;

34

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

life cycle. https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climatechange/services/environmental-indicators/progresstowards-canada-greenhouse-gas-emissionsreduction-target.html

2018 | ATLANTIC FOCUS

35