City of New Westminster launches new program to support the design and construction of ultra-low energy homes

New Westminster, BC – To encourage the design and construction of ultra-low energy homes, the City of New Westminster is launching a High Performance New Home Program to build local awareness and demand for ultra-low energy residential buildings, including low-rise homes and multi-residential.  This initiative is geared toward local residents as well as innovative designers and builders interested in turning the concepts into reality in New Westminster.

The official program launch is scheduled for Saturday, May 9^th, 2015 at Anvil Centre, with a free public learning event featuring a stellar cast of thought leaders and innovators who are already blazing trails on Net Zero Energy and Passive House Certified residential projects in BC.

“There is growing interest in green building practices and the number of innovative single family, multi-family and commercial projects is increasing every year,” said New Westminster Mayor Jonathan Coté.  “We’re excited to host an event that will bring together local residents, builders, architects, realtors, utilities and energy professionals to hear about these projects and understand how we can encourage this to happen in New Westminster.”

Taking place in the proscenium theatre at the Anvil Centre, this half-day event (10:00 am to 2:00 pm) features leading BC designers, builders and energy experts who will unpack concepts such as Passive House Certified, Zero Energy and Energy Star® residential construction. Experts will present on innovative design, construction practices and building systems, and case studies profiling leading-edge low rise and multi-residential projects in British Columbia will be presented.

 “The City of New Westminster recognizes the importance of engagement and knowledge-transfer within the local community as a way to spur innovation and problem solving,” said Norm Connolly, City of New Westminster Community Energy Manager. “This event is designed to raise awareness of new building approaches and technologies that can dramatically reduce energy costs while also delivering additional benefits such as improved comfort and low environmental impact.”

While the event is free, attendees must register as seating space is limited.  To view the speaker program or to register, please visit energysavenewwest.ca or call 604.515.3818.

The High Performance New Home Program is the latest component of Energy Save New West, a community energy efficiency program funded by City of New Westminster in partnership with BC Hydro and FortisBC.  

The official program launch event is sponsored by the City of New Westminster, BC Hydro, FortisBC and Vancity.

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Contact:
Norm Connolly
Community Energy Manager
City of New Westminster
604.527.4572