Modern Niagara retrofit in Kingston achieves IREE certification
The Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) has officially awarded Investor Ready Energy Efficiency (IREE) certification to Modern Niagara for a commercial retrofit project in Kingston.
The construction company announced the certification on January 19. At 220,000 square feet, the building at 945 Princess Street becomes one of the largest projects in Canada to receive IREE certification.
IREE certification designates compliance with standardized assessments that certifies energy efficiency retrofit projects through third-party verification to investors.
Infrastructure upgrades to the facility targets decarbonization with a goal of reducing carbon emissions by more than 80 per cent or approximately 2,000 tonnes annually.
Modern Niagara's Energy Solutions team engineered a comprehensive energy efficiency plan to convert and improve performance of the 20th-century building by replacing its fossil-fueled heating system with electrified systems that facilitate clean renewable energy sources.
"Decarbonizing our existing buildings is an exciting but daunting objective. Modern Niagara has successfully developed a retrofit plan for a particularly challenging building, demonstrating the art of the possible," said Mark Hutchinson, Vice President of Green Building Programs and Innovation at CAGBC.
"Achieving IREE certification is a significant milestone that further solidifies Modern Niagara's position as an innovative leader in energy efficiency solutions. We are committed to contributing to the decarbonization of buildings across Canada as we work towards a net-zero future," said Kevin Spencer, Vice President of Energy Solutions at Modern Niagara. "IREE certification provides investors with the verified assurance that we're able to meet the building's carbon reduction objectives."
In October, the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) announced a commitment of $25 million towards transforming the commercial space into a leading energy efficient and sustainable innovation hub.
"Our green infrastructure investments are expediting the decarbonization of buildings across Canada. By providing attractive financing options and partnering with the private sector, we can serve as the link to ensure meaningful action is taken to enhance energy efficiency of buildings," said CIB CEO Ehren Cory. "IREE certification is our standard to finance retrofit projects and build positive outcomes for Canadians."
The commercial retrofit project which began construction in 2022 is expected to reach substantial completion by 2024.