Net-Zero Plan for the Maison des aînés de Saint-Amable (seniors’ residence)

The Maison des aînés de Saint-Amable (MASA), the seniors’ residence, was planned in 2016 to meet the need for housing for the elderly. MASA will construct a 40-unit residence for independent seniors, with a meal service and entertainment provided in the building. This initiative aims to examine what the financial feasibility of energy savings and the affordability of the units will be with the construction of a high quality, sustainable building. MASA has set up a technical team that will assess various measures to determine which of the energy savings targets will be achievable, i.e., a) net-zero; b) a reduction in energy use of 55% and above; or c) a reduction of between 41% and 55%. Various options are to be considered: the installation of geothermal wells to meet the heating and cooling load of common areas; the addition of a high efficiency ventilation system; and, the addition of a smart commercial rangehood. Innovative aspect(s): MASA will prepare a case study to properly document energy efficiency and GHG reduction in the hydroelectric (and virtually carbon neutral) context of Québec. Replicability: Research of this type carried out in the province of Québec will be able to demonstrate the feasibility of achieving net-zero, using the Novoclimat Program as a model for affordable housing. Affordability: Eighty percent of the units will be affordable with rents less than 80% of the local median market rent. (Project description from original funding application)