Published: June 2024
Organization: BC Housing Research Center
Format: Report
Estimated Reading Time: ~10 minutes
Why We RecomMend It?
This report from the BC Housing Research Centre draws on data from 38 residential projects, showing that high-performance buildings can be delivered at or below the cost of lower-performance ones—when performance goals are integrated early by experienced teams. It makes a strong case that energy-efficient construction doesn’t have to compromise affordability. While the projects analyzed are located in British Columbia, the key takeaways apply across Canada, where building codes and market expectations are steadily advancing toward sustainability.
Key Takeaways
For Building Owners & Developers
Demonstrates that high performance doesn’t have to cost more when integrated strategically.
Confirms that high-performance buildings can be delivered at the same or lower cost than conventional builds.
Underscores the importance of involving experienced design teams early to achieve both performance and cost goals.
For Designers & Consultants
Offers large-sample construction data to help articulate the business case for high-performance design.
Reinforces the role of experienced designers and early planning in achieving cost-effective energy targets.
For Builders & Contractors
Shows how project planning, material selection, and design coordination can make high-performance homes cost-competitive.
Encourages the adoption of high-performance building practices to future-proof skills and stay competitive in a changing market.
Next Steps & Related Reading...
- Still exploring the value of green buildings? Dive deeper into our Business Case section for insights from different perspectives—or check out our Case Studies for real-world examples that bring the numbers to life.
- Ready to move forward? Visit the Carbon Neutral Buildings section to dive into key concepts and practical strategies—or explore our Resource Library to find topics that matter most to you.