Vancouver, B.C. — British Columbia is looking to accelerate climate and energy retrofits for commercial and residential buildings.
The announcement comes after the Zero Emissions Innovation Centre (ZEIC) launched its three-year $20 million BC Retrofit Accelerator (BCRA) program. This program aims to provide hands-on guidance to the owners and managers of larger commercial and residential properties.
“The climate is changing, and the buildings that we live, work, and play in need to change too. By timing cost-effective energy and climate upgrades with regular building renewals, property owners and managers can deliver healthier, more comfortable homes and workplaces while advancing climate action. It just makes sense,” said Melina Scholefield, executive director of ZEIC.
Over the next three years, BCRA aims to deliver decarbonization plans for 500 large existing buildings, each showing a path to zero emissions by 2050 aligned with major capital renewals.
The program will provide expert coaching for all stages of a retrofit project, such as identifying technology and financing options and support through procurement and implementation.
By guiding building owners and managers through the upgrade process, the BCRA aims to spark deep energy retrofits — including installing heat pumps or distributed renewable energy systems — in 125 larger properties across the province.
Additionally, the BCRA is teaming up with 15 public, private, and non-profit partners to target and lower barriers for property owners and managers looking to upgrade their buildings. These barriers include low awareness, complexity, and challenges in sourcing financing.
Natural Resources Canada, the Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation, Metro Vancouver, and ZEIC funded the program.