Evaluating energy efficient measures for a new construction of 44 affordable housing units in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

For the past 30 years, Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia (AHANS) built and upgraded affordable housing units across the province. This initiative would add 44 townhouses to the organization’s portfolio to support households currently or at risk of experiencing homelessness. The study will assess the feasibility of using several energy-efficient technologies to reach a net total energy use intensity (TEUI) of 80 kWh/m2. Apart from conducting an energy analysis of HVAC systems and efficient insulation, the project team will work with local experts to develop and design a new energy efficient prefabricated panels standard that incorporates Passive House design principles and achieves the Canadian Homebuilders Net Zero Program Certification. Furthermore, the applicant will investigate the impact of Passive House design standards combined with solar power. Where possible, the project will reduce environmental nuisances, such as unnecessary heat and site light and noise pollution. The SAH study Grant will support the applicant in hiring consultants to complete the appropriate energy modelling, architectural design, and financial analysis. Results from this study will support the organization in accessing additional funding from CMHC and FCM for their capital project. This subsequent capital project already received the financial support of the government of Nova Scotia. Innovative aspect(s): The project plans to develop a new prefabricated panel system that incorporates Passive House design principles, which is a new take on combining relatively established processes that may significantly increase the energy efficiency of a building. Replicability: To reduce risks and costs to other providers, AHANS will share the blueprint and lessons learned for the prefabricated development across their partnerships in Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada. Affordability: Fifty-four percent of the units will be affordable (80% below MMR). The improved energy efficient features will also allow the project to sustain affordability independent from government subsidy. (Project description from original funding application)