April 25, 2014
Manitoba Among First Provinces to Adopt New Energy-efficiency Standards
– – –Changes to New Regulations Take Effect December 2014
New regulations for energy efficiency in the construction of large buildings will come into effect Dec. 1, 2014, Labour and Immigration Minister Erna Braun, minister responsible for the Office of the Fire Commissioner, announced today.
“Manitoba has chosen to adopt the National Energy Code for Buildings 2011 in an effort to make new large buildings more energy efficient and reduce the operating costs of the buildings over time,” Minister Braun said. “We are committed to protecting our environment and our resources, so Manitoba is pleased to be one of the first provinces to implement these energy-efficiency requirements for larger buildings.”
The new efficiency standards will apply to building insulation as well as lighting, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, water heating, and electrical systems. The changes will affect the design of larger commercial and residential buildings, but do not apply to houses, small buildings or farm buildings.
“We are very pleased to see the province continue to meet its commitment to energy reduction,” said Kaeryn Gregory, chair of the Manitoba Chapter of the Canada Green Building Council. “The new requirements ensure that Manitoba continues to lead the country in its approach to green building as well as positioning the province for a sustainable future.”
The new regulations are a key part of Manitoba’s Clean Energy Strategy and build on existing energy- and water-efficiency requirements in the Manitoba Building and Plumbing Codes, the minister said.
“Over a 20-year period, when compared to the previous energy code, it is estimated the new code will avoid 449,000 tonnes of future greenhouse-gas emissions, which is equivalent to removing approximately 90,000 vehicles from the road. This will also lead to a projected savings of $56.2 million to Manitoba Hydro customers,” said Minister Braun.
“The province’s adoption of the energy code ensures new buildings in Manitoba will meet the highest standards in energy efficiency and truly solidifies its commitment to the importance of energy conservation,” said Scott Thomson, president and CEO, Manitoba Hydro. “Complementing our Power Smart investments, the new regulations will further assist building owners and occupants to realize the benefits of lower energy bills and more comfortable, healthier indoor spaces.”
The Manitoba Energy Code for Buildings will take effect in Manitoba on Dec. 1, 2014, to give industry and building enforcement officials time to prepare. For more information, contact the Office of the Fire Commissioner at 204-945-3322 or 1-800-282-8069 (toll-free) or at www.firecomm.gov.mb.ca.
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