Vancouver Green Homes Program: City implements Greener Building Standard
Contributed by Mara
The City of Vancouver has implemented a new Green Homes Program as part of a push to reduce Green House Gasses (GHGs) in the city. The amended Building By-law applies to all new 1 and 2 family homes, and officially took effect on July 8th, 2008. The By-law has included a range of eco-friendlier requirements, from raising minimum R-value standards for insulation, to installing infrastructure that can eventually be converted for powering electric vehicles.
Of course at Radec we’re particularly keen on new requirements for:
- Dual-flush toilets
- Energy Star windows
- Insulating blankets for electric water heaters
But we’re not just keen because we happen to sell these items, we’re keen because we really believe in their value, and their abilities to improve comfort at home, and reduce energy and water use. (We’re in this business for a reason, afterall).
Unfortunately, since the By-law applies to new home constructions, products don’t qualify for grants under Natural Resource Canada’s ecoENERGY program or the LiveSmart BC, but new homeowners will see financial benefits from lower energy costs.
However, for anyone considering renovations to an existing building, you should know that there is a lot of grant money available to help if you’re willing to make energy efficient building choices, making your costs comparable to lower efficiency products. Even though the Building By-law changes won’t apply to you, green options are definitely worth considering, since you’ll save even more money in the long run!
Tags: dual-flush toilets, ecoEnergy, energy efficiency, energy-star windows, Green Homes Program, LiveSmart BC, Vancouver Building By-law
