Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency refers to the practice of utilizing energy resources in a way that minimizes waste and maximizes output, ultimately reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.
ResourceKing Tower Solar Wall Report
An energy investigation into the solar wall currently in use at King Tower. The investigation provides a good estimate of the energy output of the solar wall system (2008-2009).
ResourceThe Living Home from Concept to Completion
The issues surrounding green housing, and the results of the household monitoring are summarized in this report. The project provided an occasion for public discussion on green building in Lethbridge, and an opportunity for students of Lethbridge College to engage in an authentic and practical experience applied directly to industry.
ResourcePlanning for Sustainability: A Starter Guide
These latest publications offer creative methods to help municipalities, businesses and organizations find the balance between planning futures and protecting the environment. The Sustainability Primer offers strategies to difficult planning challenges, while Planning for Sustainability: A Planners Guide details the framework to develop strategic and sustainable goals.
ResourceBuilding Towards Water Efficiency: Policy Innovation and Education in New and Existing Homes
Residential builders and REALTOR®s have been neglected in water efficiency research. But these groups can be a highly influential and there are some exciting examples of innovation in Ontario, the Canadian West and in California. This two-year research project investigates the sample groups’ deep beliefs and values – their tacit knowledge. The results will be used to contribute to effective policy for residential water efficiency.
ResourceSustainability at Home – A toolkit
Sustainability at home is a toolkit that helps homeowners understand how to apply sustainable development concepts to everyday household decisions The toolkit covers an explanation of sustainability; questions to ask while making household decisions; concrete and simple suggestions for every room in your house; renovations; resources for further information and idea and more.Designed for Alberta, this guide will be useful for REALTOR®S® to distribute to new and experienced homeowners alike.
ResourceEcotrust Eco-Home Demonstration Project
The Alberta Ecohome outlined four primary goals relating to the environmental performance of the home and the engagement of community groups, industry groups and the greater community. A. Design and construct an eco-demonstration home. B. Provide a platform for numerous collaborations and partnership in the community. C. Build the capacity of environmental non-government organizations (NGOs). D. Provide new opportunities to build awareness of energy efficiency and environmental options for new homebuyers and the community.
ResourceSAIT Course Module: Alberta’s “Green” Building Programs and Initiatives
This course was funded as part of the Albert Eco-Home Demonstration project and identifies the builder and renovator requirements for developing “green” homes. It also outlines the homebuyer benefits of each of the “green” programs and initiatives in Alberta, including: EnerGuide for New Houses, EnerGuide for Existing Houses, Built Green and R-2000. This resource is available in hard copy format at the AREF office.
ResourceYour New Home – A Guide to Healthy Living & Environmental Cost Saving
Buying or Renting a New Home? Learn about improved home health and cost savings through energy efficiency, indoor air quality, water conservation and waste management.