Canada’s Path to Net-Zero Energy by 2030 Discussed at FGIA Summer Conference
Vancouver, BC – In a recent presentation at the FGIA Summer Conference, Jeff Baker, President of WESTLab Canada, shed light on Canada’s ambitious plans to achieve net-zero energy by 2030. As an engineer specializing in fenestration energy analysis, Baker shared valuable insights into the industry’s role in this transformative journey.
During his engaging talk titled “Fenestration: The Path to 2030 and Beyond,” Baker, a prominent figure in the fenestration simulation sector, provided updates on the ongoing work by Natural Resources Canada. The organization has been reviewing the currently available fenestration products and their potential to achieve various performance levels aligned with the path to net-zero energy houses by 2030. Additionally, Baker discussed the proposed targets for the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) Tier 5 prescriptive compliance path in the upcoming 2025 code. He also emphasized the requirements for different window types to meet these targets effectively.
According to Baker, the building codes in Canada are currently undergoing a remarkable market transformation. He emphasized the progress made in the industry, partly attributed to ENERGY STAR’s efforts in promoting higher-performing fenestration products with low U-factors. However, Baker emphasized that more transformative changes lie ahead. In the pursuit of net-zero energy houses by 2030, Natural Resources Canada has challenged the fenestration industry to meet their aspirational goal for windows. This dynamic landscape indicates significant forthcoming changes in national and provincial building and energy codes.
Baker’s presentation aptly demonstrated the evolution of the fenestration industry, highlighting past achievements, the current landscape, and the future prospects. He emphasized the role of triple glazed insulated glass units (IGUs) in achieving the ambitious energy goals. Baker further elaborated on the Pan Canadian Framework (PCF) on clean growth and climate change, the National Net-Zero and Climate Resilient by 2050 Buildings Strategy, and their contributions to market transformation.
To meet the PCF’s goals, Baker revealed that by 2025, the aspirational target is for all residential windows available in Canada to possess a U-factor of ≤1.22 W/m²K (0.21 BTU/hrft²F). Looking ahead, the long-term objective for 2030 is for residential windows to achieve a U-factor of ≤0.82 W/m²K (0.14 BTU/hrft²F). These targets signify the industry’s dedication to energy efficiency and sustainable practices.
Baker highlighted the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, which became law on June 29, 2021. This legislation solidifies Canada’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. He emphasized that the Act ensures transparency, accountability, and public participation in guiding the government’s efforts to fulfill these targets. While acknowledging the significant challenge of transitioning to net-zero emission buildings, Baker encouraged all participants to be proactive and prepare for the higher performance standards that lie ahead.
For more information about FGIA and its activities, visit FGIAonline.org.
Source: FGIAonline.org with additional information added by GlassBalkan
