Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q. What is the EnerGuide for New Houses program?

 

The program consists of two steps: analysis of house plans and verification of energy upgrades once the building is complete.

During the analysis of house plans, an ATCO EnergySense energy advisor examines the plans to identify cost effective measures to improve the home’s comfort and energy consumption. 

 

Recommendations inside your energy report include:

  • potential air leaks,

  • the energy efficiency of building components,

  • house orientation and passive solar heat gain,

  • heating system efficiency and heat distribution, and

  • air exchange systems

The second step is the verification of energy upgrades once the home is complete. An energy advisor verifies that the upgrades have been incorporated into the house. In addition, a blower-door test is performed to check for air leaks in the home’s envelope and assists with the calculation of the EnerGuide rating.

 

The homebuilder will then receive a revised energy report and an EnerGuide rating and label, which enables buyers and sellers to recognize how energy efficient the home is built.

 

 

Q. How do I participate in the EnerGuide for New Houses program and what are the costs?

 

You are encouraged to contact ATCO EnergySense at
310-7283 or via e-mail at energysense@atco.com to discuss the process and current charges for this service.

 

 

Q. Are there other initiatives specific to new home construction?

 

In Alberta, Built Green is an industry driven voluntary initiative that encourages "green" building practices (including energy efficiency) to minimize the impact building has on the environment. 

 

Each home you build as a Built Green Member bears the symbol of bronze, silver or gold—depending on the degree of “green” practices built into the home.

For further information contact Built Green at (403) 284-8100 or e-mail at admin@builtgreencanada.ca