Energy, CO2, and peak demand requirements in the 2012 Ontario Building Code
The 2012 Ontario Building Code came into effect on January 1, 2014. Included in the new Code is an updated version of Supplementary Standard SB-10 (available only in hard copy), which contains requirements for building energy efficiency, CO2 emissions, and peak...
read moreENERGY STAR® Portfolio Manager™ comes to Canada
ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, a benchmarking tool developed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has grown to become an industry standard. Developed in 2000 as an online tool for tracking water and energy consumption, Portfolio Manager now includes...
read moreGermany’s energy revolution – lessons for Ontario
The Ontario Energy Board recently announced that time-of-use hydro rates will increase by 0.5 ¢/kWh as of November 1, 2013, equivalent to a 3% monthly increase for the average household or small business. The Ontario Energy Board cites “…more generation from sources...
read moreAdvanced rooftop control retrofits
Packaged rooftop units (RTUs) are one of the most common HVAC systems in use today, serving over 60% of the commercial building floor area in the US. These systems deliver heating and cooling to a space using constant-speed supply fans and provide outdoor air at a...
read moreGetting greater value from energy modelling
Using energy modeling can help provide insight and identify energy saving opportunities in the building design process. However, not all energy models are created equal. It is very important to identify the objectives of the energy model and understand its...
read moreEnergy modelling in a design Charrette
The Integrated Design Process (IDP) is a popular approach to high performance building design that involves an intensive group meeting to explore various design options. The group consists of a diverse set of design professionals, administrators, consultants, and...
read moreThe value of LEED to the City of Ottawa
The City of Ottawa’s environment committee recently raised questions about the value of pursuing LEED green building certification for City buildings. While it appears the City will not immediately stop pursuing LEED certification for City buildings, the question...
read moreThermal breaks in balconies
In 2012, the Ontario Building Code (OBC) increased minimum building energy efficiency requirements through the revision of Supplement SB-10, bringing renewed focus to continuous insulation and thermal bridging in building constructions. Balconies are an...
read moreSunshine electricity
2012 was a landmark year for bringing solar-generated electricity to Ontario. Approximately 500MW of PV has been brought into operation; with another 1500+ under development. PV will constitute 10% of all renewables contracted for development. Locally, there are three...
read moreWelcome to the Arborus Efficiency Journal
Getting Efficiency Done! This Journal is intended to provide a forum to facilitate a discussion to assist folks in the design, construction and operation of buildings and the supporting infrastructure. The matter of efficiency is not limited to energy, the matter...
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