Net Zero Energy-Ready Buildings: A Canadian Construction Perspective and Evaluation

Abstract

To attain net zero energy-ready building (NZErB) status, various research efforts have focused on identifying potential strategies and creating stringent code compliances for builders. This review presents a comparative assessment of Canadian newly constructed, retrofitted, and potential retrofit buildings from the mid-1900s to 1990, all aiming for NZErB status. 22 case studies from climate zones 5, 6, and 7a are evaluated, including 12 new constructions and 4 retrofitted, and 6 potential retrofit buildings. A life cycle assessment (LCA) analysis is conducted to understand the environmental impacts of different insulation materials. Additionally, this review highlights retrofitted buildings measures toward climate resilience, challenges inretrofitting, andstrategies for achieving high-quality retrofits. The work concluded that 83.3% of new buildings achieved level 5 in thermal energy demand intensity (TEDI), while 70% of completed and potential retrofits reached level 5 in mechanical energy usage intensity (MEUI). Cellulose insulation showed the lowest global warming potential (GWP) at 12.07 kg CO₂-e·m⁻³. By comparing the performance of new constructions with completed and potential retrofits, this review provides valuable insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of retrofitting older buildings to attain net zero energy readiness.