Reducing emissions starts in our homes.
The program provides free-of-charge technical and financial guidance to housing providers throughout the retrofit process, helping our region prepare for a low-carbon future.
What is a Deep Energy Retrofit, and Why Does it Matter?
A deep energy retrofit is an upgrade that results in at least 50% energy savings and an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
These retrofits focus on improving building envelopes, upgrading mechanical systems, and incorporating renewable energy technologies.
Deep retrofits aren’t just about reducing energy use; they are essential for creating comfortable, healthier living spaces and future-proofing buildings. Retrofitted homes see reduced operational costs, improved tenant satisfaction, and increased asset value. For communities across Eastern Ontario, these projects help reduce emissions, improve air quality, and build climate resilience.
The Benefits of Deep Retrofits
For Building Owners
- Improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.
- Increase resident health and comfort.
- Future-proof buildings and increase market value.
For Eastern Ontario
- Reduce emissions and build climate resilience.
- Ensure quality, affordable housing while creating local jobs.
- Reduce air pollutants from burning fossil fuels.
Why Focus on Social Housing, Including Townhouses?
Townhouses are ideal candidates for deep retrofits due to their uniform design and efficiency potential. However, the Retrofit Accelerator is designed to support a range of social housing types. Whether managing townhouses, low-rise apartments, or other social housing units, we work to identify and implement the best energy-saving measures. With over 15,000 social housing townhouse units in Eastern Ontario alone, the opportunity for large-scale impact is significant, but we are expanding our scope to include additional housing types.
EnviroCentre is currently recruiting new housing providers to join this effort as we work toward over 1,000 units of deep energy retrofits across Eastern Ontario.
Supporting Affordable Housing Providers
EnviroCentre’s Retrofit Accelerator offers full-service support to plan, finance, and complete deep energy-saving upgrades on housing units. We simplify the process, helping providers navigate the complexities of retrofits while accessing necessary resources and funding.
The Retrofit Accelerator Process
ASSESS
Work on a thorough assessment of your potential project
- Provide information on how retrofits can help your organization save on utilities, upgrade rental units, and benefit tenants.
- Assess your building portfolio to identify cost-effective deep retrofit opportunities.
- Review your financial situation to understand what funding will be needed.
- Retrofit is potential is determined
PLAN
Develop a detailed project plan
- Plan and complete energy audits.
- Work with you to complete capital funding applications.
- Seek out financial pathways, including government rebates, low-cost financing, and de-risked financing options.
- including outcomes assessment, to guide the retrofit process.
DELIVER
Oversee the execution of the project, ensuring that all measures are implemented efficiently.
- Provide procurement and project management support.
- Offer technical support in trades coordination, QA/QC throughout the retrofit process.
- Engage with tenants to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed.
MEASURE
After the retrofit is complete.
- Measure energy and GHG (greenhouse gas) savings to verify the project’s success.
- Provide detailed summary reports, including financial outcomes and energy use reductions.
- Continue tenant and stakeholder engagement to ensure ongoing support and monitor long-term energy savings.
Key Retrofit Technologies
Our projects use many of the following technologies to deliver deep energy savings:
Ground and Air-Source Heat Pumps
Solar PV
LED Lighting
Air Sealing + Weatherization
Insulation
EV Charging
High-Performance Windows
Fuel-switching
Ventilation
Smart Thermostats + Energy Management Systems
Join Us:
Trades and Contractors
Are you a contractor or tradesperson specializing in energy-efficient retrofits?
Join EnviroCentre’s Retrofit Accelerator and become part of a growing market for deep energy retrofits across Eastern Ontario.
We are looking for experts in:
- HVAC and heat pump installation
- Insulation and building envelope upgrades
- Solar PV installation
- Air sealing and weatherization
- High-performance windows and doors
- Smart thermostats and energy management systems
By partnering with us, you’ll gain:
- Access to more projects and leads in this expanding field
- Opportunities to build expertise in sustainable practices
- Specialized training in green technologies
- The chance to grow your reputation as a responsible, forward-thinking business
Seeking Contributing Partners
EnviroCentre’s Retrofit Accelerator is seeking partners who are passionate about advancing deep energy retrofits. If you believe you can contribute to this vital work, we want to hear from you. Whether you are an expert in the field or a new partner with fresh ideas, your involvement can make a significant impact.
It’s Never Been More Important—Or Easier—to Invest in Green Retrofits
The demand for green retrofits has never been greater, and EnviroCentre’s Retrofit Accelerator is here to help. We provide free expert services to guide affordable housing providers in Eastern Ontario through every step of the deep energy retrofit process.
Interested in Learning More? What Are the Next Steps?
The first step in the Retrofit Accelerator journey is getting to know you and your buildings. EnviroCentre can arrange an introductory meeting to walk you through the process and begin gathering information about your organization, housing, and plans.
Ready to get started?
Contact us today!
+1 (613) 656-0100