WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT TO WISCONSIN:
Wisconsin’s construction industry could play a role in helping to meet energy efficiency and renewable power goals.
Canada has made great strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by turning to more renewable sources of power. Now, the country needs to take a close look at its buildings to make them less fossil fuel-dependent in order to meet nationwide goals for climate control, the Canada Green Building Council says.
The Council’s Roadmap for Retrofits in Canada report says that updating and retrofitting large commercial and public buildings could reduce carbon emissions by as much as 51%. Many of the structures were built before construction requirements took carbon emissions into consideration.
Suggestions in the report include:
- Recommission the largest buildings—such as recreational centers, commercial offices, health care facilities, and retail centers—to optimize their existing heating and cooling systems.
- Retrofit 40% of the buildings that are at least 35 years oldor use electric heat by switching lighting to LEDs and heating to heat pumps.
- Convert natural gas-heated buildings to electric heat pumps.
- Add solar panels to 30% of the buildings in provinces with carbon-intensive electricity grids—particularly retail, education, and institutional buildings with large roofs.
Construction materials are also a significant factor in the carbon footprint of a building. According to an article in Construction Business magazine, the overwhelming majority of the carbon emissions from buildings are directly linked to materials and construction. A few strategies include using mass timber, low-carbon concrete, and extruded polystyrene insulation.
The International Energy Agency, which monitors clean energy progress worldwide, says without action by the building industry, Canada will not be on track to reach its 2050 climate targets.
Wisconsin companies involved in energy efficiency and renewable energy for existing buildings might find opportunities to participate in the effort.
