On December 10, 2024, we attended a webinar organized by MELCCFP. It presented an initial overview of proposed regulations for the declaration of building energy data. The meeting provided an opportunity to explain the main thrust of these regulations, which stem from the Energy Efficiency Bill passed early this year. Here are the main points to consider.
Ambitious Objectives
In its Green Economy Plan, Quebec set ambitious objectives for reducing GHG emissions in the construction sector, greater than those established in 1990:
- 50% reduction in emissions related to the heating of buildings by 2030;
- 60% reduction in government sector buildings by 2030;
- Zero emissions in government sector buildings by 2040;
- Carbon neutral buildings by 2050.
- The legislature has also set a target for energy consumption per unit in government buildings, i.e. a 15% reduction by 2030 as compared to 2012-2013.
Legislative Framework Established
To further this transition, the draft regulations include:
- Collection of energy consumption data: Owners of more than 25 units or of buildings over 2,000 m² must declare their consumption data using digital tools such as Energy Star Portfolio Manager.
- Awareness and transparency: An environmental performance rating will be publicly available to promote a better understanding of energy impacts and attendant GHG emissions.
- Ongoing improvement: Gradual implementation of environmental performance standards aimed at reducing GHG emissions and improving energy efficiency.
Declaration, Ratings and Standards: Pillars of the new system
The proposed system is based on a multi-stage process:
- Declaration of energy consumption data: Owners must provide precise information on energy consumption in buildings (surface area, designated use, consumption per source: electricity, gas, steam, etc.) via an electronic platform. The first buildings affected will be public institutions and very large buildings.
- Environmental rating: A rating will be attributed based on the energy data provided, the purpose being to monitor energy performance and GHG emissions.
- Mandatory posting: Owners must make that information visible and prominently displayed so as to inform potential occupants, users and buyers.
- Minimal energy performance standards: These requirements obliging owners to improve the rating of their buildings will be phased in gradually.
Key Tool: Energy Star Portfolio Manager
The webinar also highlighted the importance of Energy Star Portfolio Manager (ESPM) as the primary data monitoring tool. It allows for automated transfer of energy data received from distribution partners such as Hydro-Québec and Énergir. As often mentioned in our various postings and publications, participants in the commercial sector who have already adopted ESPM for the Building Energy Challenge have a head start in meeting the new requirements (it's not too late to sign up!).
3-Stage Timetable
The regulations will be rolled out in three phases:
- 2026: Data declaration mandatory for institutional and very large buildings.
- 2027: Mandatory for large buildings.
- 2028: Mandatory for medium-sized buildings.
Each owner will have to declare data for the two years preceding the date on which the obligation comes into force. For example, declarations for 2026 will have to include data for 2024 and 2025.
The webinar concluded with a question period where participants were able to clarify certain technical and regulatory aspects. Pre-consultation is an important stage, but the process remains open to contributions. As a member of BOMA Quebec, you are invited to submit comments via our online survey or to send suggestions or queries by e-mail to MELCCFP.
As industry leaders, you are actively involved in this energy revolution. Aware of the challenges involved in adapting to these new requirements, BOMA Quebec is committed to supporting you as best we can throughout the process by providing tools, training and practical advice to help you understand and implement these regulations. Taking part in the Building Energy Challenge is an excellent first step. Together, we will ensure that our members are able to take advantage of these changes to improve the performance of their buildings and reduce their environmental footprint.
Couldn't make it and want to find out more?
If you have any questions or require more information, please consult the resources we have available, or contact the BOMA Quebec team.