In the course of the federal government’s recent Generation Energy dialogue, Canadians agreed energy-efficient buildings and homes are a critical component in the transition to a clean energy future.

The Government of Canada will now recognize commercial and institutional buildings demonstrating exceptional energy performance with the Energy Star certification. The program is expanding to encourage and recognize building professionals for their exceptional energy performance, corporate management, and environmental stewardship.

The federal natural resources minister Jim Carr challenged building owners and managers to take advantage of this new tool to demonstrate their commitment to green growth and to be the first to earn their certification.

The first buildings to be certified will receive additional recognition beyond the Energy Star acknowledgement. The “Who Will Be the First?” challenge runs until April 30.

According to a statement released by Natural Resources Canada, Energy Star certified buildings save energy, reduce costs, and generate fewer greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than non-certified buildings.

Buildings now eligible for certification in Canada include:

• commercial offices;
• k–12 schools;
• hospitals;
• medical offices;
• senior care communities and residential care facilities;
• supermarkets and food stores; and
• Ice and curling rinks.

Energy Star portfolio manager is a resource building owners and managers can use to help manage energy consumption.

Investing in existing homes and buildings is one of the most effective ways to become more energy-efficient, said the statement.