Net Zero in Toronto
Updated: Jun 16, 2021
Image from zeroenergyproject.org
In the past few years, you may have heard about Net-Zero homes in Toronto and want to learn about this new movement. As homeowners, it is crucial to be aware of the newest technologies and initiatives that will aid with reducing our carbon footprint, and most importantly the cost of maintenance.
Toronto’s Net Zero Strategy
Due to the City Council's Climate Emergency declaration, currently, the City is designing a Net Zero Strategy as a solution for a low-carbon city. It aligns with TransformTO’s plan of reducing local greenhouse gas emissions, growing the economy, improving population health, and enhancing social equity.
To learn more about Toronto Green Standard for low-rise residential buildings, click here.
TransformTO’s Goals
To decrease the negative impacts of climate change, TransformTO has established the following goals.
Buildings and homes:
By 2030, all new buildings will be constructed to produce near-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
By 2050, all pre-existing buildings will have been modified and transformed to achieve net-zero emissions.
Energy:
By 2050, 100 percent of energy will be produced from renewable or low-carbon sources.
To view the up-to-date information about TransformTO, click here.
What are Net-Zero Homes?
A net-zero home produces as much energy as it consumes so the net amount of power bought from the local hydro company is zero. This new method of production of energy is becoming more favoured amongst people that are intrigued by the concept of owning a property that is more resilient and also will experience a decrease in costs over time.
What Qualifies Homes as Net Zero?
Net-zero homes are created to be efficient by up to 80 percent compared to regular homes, thus they would need less energy to start with. The main principle to keep a net-zero home is to ensure energy usage is low, in order to produce enough power to meet your needs. Generally, they are designed to take advantage of the sun as a source of light and warmth, also known as passive heating. This is supported through added insulation and airtight design which regulates the interior temperature during winter and summer. Additionally, through high-efficiency HVAC systems and on-site energy generation, your home would keep energy use low whilst also producing enough power for the household’s usage in a year.
How Does it Benefit Homeowners and Laneway Houses?
As homeowners who are interested in laneway housing as an addition to supplemental income, the net-zero strategy is beneficial in having lower costs over time. Apart from laneway suites having a much smaller footprint as well as less operational cost, the homeowner can be at ease, as the tenants would not use as much water and electricity with the net-zero technology. Over time, the long-term saving and profit from net-zero laneway housing will balance the initial cost.
If you have any further questions, please send us an email or book a meeting.
