Net Zero Energy+ Program

We've added a new level of achievement to our line-up of industry friendly green building programs! Consistent with our other programs, BUILT GREEN® Net Zero Energy+ for Single Family New Homes maintains energy efficiency as its fundamental component, then goes beyond energy, moving the industry toward a more holistic approach to sustainable building practices: including the preservation of natural resources, reduction of pollution, ventilation and air quality, and home durability—this is represented in the program's title, with the plus sign.

"Net zero” refers to a home producing as much energy as it uses in a year. There are builders reaching this target, while many more have a ways to go, and this program can help builders reach their net zero goals—and showcase their achievement.

Home Certification

We remain committed to guiding incremental improvement through our four certification levels—each with increased energy performance requirements, alongside improvement outlined in other key areas of sustainable building. And, with Built Green’s Net Zero Energy+ program, there is the option for another level of achievement—which building code will require by 2030. 

The Single Family program is a two-in-one certification: the EnerGuide label through

Natural Resources Canada and the BUILT GREEN® label through Built Green Canada.

Certification recognizes the authenticity of a project, offering third-party verification to the

build's energy efficiency and green features. There may be rebates available for certifying through this program.

Net Zero Energy+ Requirements

The homes we label Net Zero Energy+ must meet net zero energy performance, as well as BUILT GREEN® Gold or Platinum through the checklist, which also outlines the seven other key sustainability areas of our programs. Our checklist guides the builder through this program, offering options on green features to integrate.

Training

Builders pursuing this certification are required to pass the training course, BUILT GREEN® Net Zero Energy for New Construction, and may work with any Energy Advisor licensed through NRCan who has also passed the training.

Program Tools

Built Green Canada offers program-specific tools, including a checklist, guide, and process flow, available to members for the purposes of BUILT GREEN® certification. To learn more, please email us.

Product Sourcing

Our online Product Catalogue features materials for builders and developers interested in sustainable building. These products have been reviewed by our Technical Standards Committee and are intended to help builders save time sourcing; their use may help earn projects points towards certification.

Builder Support

We are committed to supporting our builders and ensuring the successful certification of their projects. Built Green provides affordable, online training—and we can provide builders with further assistance, including technical advice and on-the-ground support from other experience builders and industry professionals. 

You can also review our Request for Interpretation log, which includes questions and answers previously submitted; recommend an update to the Checklist; or email us if you require clarification on a checklist item(s).