For months, HRAI has been in discussions with EnerQuality (www.enerquality.ca) about their strategic interest in developing (or adopting) and implementing a labelling system for “Healthy Homes” that would leverage their strong position in the Energy Star labelling of new homes for efficiency in Ontario.
Labelling programs of the type supported by EnerQuality are about communicating to new home buyers on the benefits of certain home attributes that go above code (in this case better filtration, ventilation, air cleaning, etc.) and making consumer decisions on these matters easier by creating a recognizable label or brand that promises certain distinct benefits.
If EnerQuality succeeds in this venture it will be good for our members and good for homebuyers.
EnerQuality is interested in having a discussion with HRAI members interested in setting a higher bar for IAQ in residential new construction. They have set a tentative workshop date of February 19, 10:00-11:30 am (EST). This first session would be for low rise (Part 9) homes, but follow-up meetings will be held with members who deal with Part 3 high-rise buildings.
HRAI is inviting members to express their interest in participating. Spaces are limited so please respond quickly if you are interested.
The goal is to gain some industry insight into the creation of a “Healthy Home” program focused on aspects of IAQ, specifically on those relating to HVAC. In the creation of this program, EnerQuality is looking to involve HRAI in the education and promotion of design considerations based in science and supported by the industry that is directly involved in the design and commissioning process.
About EnerQuality: EnerQuality is responsible for residential energy efficiency and green building programs in Ontario and certifies about a quarter of homes built in the province to the ENERGY STAR for New Homes Standard and are also the largest certifier of Net Zero homes in Canada. Most recently EnerQuality has been engaged in the creation and piloting of Energy Star Multifamily in Ontario and is midway through a Toronto Atmospheric Fund project focused on creating capacity within the multifamily high-rise sector to conduct guarded floor airtightness testing. EnerQuality provides the construction industry with education and training programs by leveraging connections within the building industry. This includes training for advanced building science and other aspects of high-performance new construction and the promotion of voluntary programming to support growth within the industry.
To hear more, contact Martin Luymes at 1-800-267-2231 ext. 235, or email mluymes@hrai.ca