Description

Join us for this engaging, two-day, professional builders’ workshop for builders, tradespeople, designers and building officials to learn how to practically, cost-effectively, apply the BC Energy Step Code within a Kootenay context and climate.

Engage with a highly-qualified building scientist, a local energy advisor, building officials, and builders to deep-dive into the topic of energy efficiency in new builds. These experts in their fields will share their experiences about what it takes to successfully prioritize energy efficiency in a cost-effective, holistic, code-compliant, coordinated way.

Space is limited, only 30 tickets available for each day. Sign-up for Day 1, Day 2 or both days –choose the ticket type that suits you best. CPD points from BC Housing will be available, exact number will be announced soon!

Presentations start promptly at 8:30 am both days, registration begins at 8 am. Continental breakfasts and lunches are included in registration. Early-bird pricing in effect until Monday, November 26th.

Overview Day 1:

Join Torsten Ely of RDH Building Science, as he examines a holistic approach to the application of the BC Energy Step Code in a Kootenay context. Hands-on mobile wall assemblies will be on site to enhance understanding (see an overview of these assemblies here: http://www.hamiddesignbuild.com/SimplyPut/must-know-wood-frame-wall-mockups/ ). Live demo of energy modelling and how different factors (window type, placement; insulation; site orientation, mechanical system selection, etc) change the energy efficiency metrics in a house design.

Megan Lohmann, Energy Manager of the RDEK, will make a case for home energy labelling and prepare us for what’s to come on day 2.

Day 1 topics include:

• overview of Step Code and its metrics
• building envelope optimization through energy modelling, design and air tightness testing
• proper sizing and integration of mechanical and ventilation systems
• real-time demonstration of energy modelling from the design phase
• home energy labelling: why, when and how

Overview Day 2:

Andy Christie, building inspector from Kimberley, will give an updated overview of the transformation, and elevation, taking place in the Kimberley building scene, brought about by adoption of municipal incentive programs, and early-adoption of Step Code policy. Ray Smith, of Kootenay Energy Advisor, will illuminate the role and services of energy advisors from the design phase, to mid-construction blower door testing, and final verification at build completion. Megan Lohmann will lead a “Getting Real” case studies and building incentives session. A Step Code costing discussion will follow. Saving the best for last, after lunch, three East Kootenay builders will present their approaches to prioritizing energy efficiency in their new builds. This will culminate in a facilitated panel discussion with these builders, Andy Christie, and Ray Smith where participants can address their questions directly to the panel. An on-site tour and discussion of a nearby new build will wrap the day.

Day 2 topics include:

• the transformation underway in the Kimberley building industry and how your home town might replicate it
• how to work with an energy advisor to incorporate energy modelling and quality assurance into your design/build process
• review of local and provincial case studies for new home builds, and a discussion of building incentives available to help with the transition to performance pathway
• the costs, challenges and opportunities of implementing Step Code: participant input requested
• presentations, panel discussion, and tour of a new build with local builders who are prioritizing energy efficiency in their new builds

About our main speaker

Torsten Ely brings an in-depth knowledge of high performance buildings to the RDH team, including a wealth of experience with the EnerGuide Rating System, the BC Energy Step Code, Passive House design, and building science.

Torsten’s primary responsibilities at RDH include Passive House consulting, Step Code services, energy audits and energy modeling.

Prior to joining RDH, Torsten worked as a Senior Building Energy Analyst at City Green Solutions where he led energy audits and assessments, completed energy modeling, provided technical support, and trained new Energy Advisors.

Further information

Please click on the green box labelled “TICKETS” to purchase your ticket. For more info and assistance, contact Gaëtane Carignan of the Community Energy Association at gcarignan@communityenergy.bc.ca or 250-469-6783 ext. 712.

Thank you to our partners and supporters

This event has been made possible thanks to FortisBC, BC Hydro, and the Regional District of the East Kootenay through their Energy Manager position. It is being enabled through the Community Energy Association.