This project will develop and execute an optimized approach to low carbon Deep Energy Retrofits and Electrification (DER+E) of two Calgary existing homes.  The aim is to provide cost effective carbon savings and low operational cost solutions to electrification within a constrained electrical grid infrastructure.  The final goal is to provide open data case studies and industry presentations to encourage wider adoption of Deep Energy Retrofits across Alberta.

The potential for expansion to other buildings, both regionally and globally, of DER + Electrification is significant and undeniable.  “Approximately two-thirds of the built area that exists today will still exist in 2050. Currently, building renovations affect only 0.5-1% of the building stock annually. A significant increase in the rate of existing building energy efficiency renovations is required to meet emissions reduction targets set by the Paris Agreement.”  (Ref Why The Building Sector? – Architecture 2030)”

Both homes enrolled in the project are currently over 70 years old. By retrofitting to this level – saving 10 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year after renovation – this project will directly save over 1250 greenhouse gas emission tonnes over the 50–75-year life expectancy added to these homes, with far greater impact as adoption increases