Conclusion

In Canada, we have the opportunity to quickly develop and implement MEPS as a key tool in our efforts to drive sharp reductions in energy use and emissions in existing buildings and provide certainty that buildings sector on track to achieving net-zero emission objectives. Using a combined approach that sets limits on energy use intensity and emissions, MEPS can serve to free our abundant sources of clean electricity to decarbonize other areas of our economy, while making the places we live, work, gather and play more comfortable and healthier. And, through widespread building labelling and benchmarking programs, potentially including EnerGuide and the Energy Star Portfolio Manager programs, we can accelerate the design and implementation of a MEPS and ensure fair and equitable absolute performance measures. Informed by the experience of other jurisdictions and the advantage of new tools and technologies on the market, we can leverage MEPS to ensure every building is on the path to net-zero.