Enbridge Sustain and SEAN, two prominent figures in sustainable energy solutions and housing development, have undertaken a remarkable initiative. The Veterans Drive venture will result in a 73-unit townhome and condo community in Barrie, Ontario. The distinguishing feature? A dedicated geothermal system for both heating and cooling, marking a significant stride in sustainable residential construction.
Innovations in Energy Efficiency: Towards Net-Zero
This ground-breaking project goes beyond just energy-efficient heating and cooling. The inclusion of EnergyStar certification positions the homes as net-zero ready, representing an innovative approach to sustainable housing. This unique collaboration reinforces federal, provincial, and municipal efforts to reduce emissions, aligning perfectly with Ontario's transition towards a net-zero energy future.
"Developers, builders, and building owners face significant barriers when seeking to adopt clean energy solutions including high upfront capital costs and ongoing maintenance and operating concerns. We're helping to make the adoption of sustainable energy technologies convenient and hassle free through a suite of affordable and dependable turnkey solutions including geothermal, solar, electric and hybrid heating and electric vehicle chargers."
Vice President of Enbridge Sustain | Mark Irvine
Geothermal Systems: The Pinnacle of Efficiency
Construction Canada reports that in terms of efficiency, geothermal systems are leagues ahead of conventional heating sources, with a staggering efficiency of 300 to 400 per cent. This remarkable efficiency stands in stark contrast to propane, oil, and electricity, which peak at 95 per cent. The bottom line for homeowners? Savings of up to 60 per cent on heating costs and up to 50 per cent on cooling costs.
SEAN's dedication to creating high-performance, sustainable communities is evident in their impressive portfolio, boasting over 1,000 homes in Barrie alone. Committed to transforming the status quo into sustainably sound practices, SEAN crafts communities that inspire and unite, offering innovative living solutions for the modern buyer.
"We're utilizing geothermal through Enbridge Sustain who took on the up-front capital costs enabling us to start on early infrastructure to then lease to the customers over time without increasing the cost. It's important that we offer affordable, comfortable homes with lower carbon footprints to our customers and Enbridge Sustain helps us to do that."
VP Sales, Land Acquisition & Marketing | Sean Mason
A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
Besides geothermal heating and air conditioning, these eco-friendly units will include:
- Solar shading devices
- Biophilic balconies
- A SmartONE home system
- Cross-laminated timber (CLT)
- Optional electric vehicle charging stations
- Solar panels
This integration of sustainable materials and innovative solutions not only benefits the environment, but also enhances the living experience for occupants.
Enbridge Sustain: Making Low-Carbon Energy Projects Seamless
Enbridge Sustain stands out in the management of low-carbon energy projects with its comprehensive, end-to-end service. From design to installation and maintenance, Enbridge ensures seamless integration, and even offers comprehensive energy reporting for customers. This methodical approach to service has made it possible to deliver these transformative projects with no upfront costs.
Other sustainable features include:
- Fibreglass, low-solar heat windows
- Outboard or exterior insulation using AeroBarrier to make the houses airtight
- LED lights
- 35 townhomes will use geothermal for hot water as well as HVAC, while 38 condos will use geothermal solely for HVAC
Consideration was also given to the roads in the development. The site is designed with a six metre road, of which 1.5 metres of that is permeable pavement. So, in every road and driveway, there is a permeable area for storm water.
Other features and amenities:
- Sizes range from 555 to 2156 square feet
- Open concept designs
- Work from home flex spaces
- Landscaping and park areas for neighbors to enjoy
- Fitness Center
- Fireside Lounge
- Outdoor Pet Center
- Outdoor dining and grills
- Outdoor meeting space
The city approved the site plan for the property in June 2021, and construction work has already begun. The expected completion date is 2024, marking a significant milestone in sustainable construction.
DataBid is currently reporting on this project - Veterans Lane Mixed Residential - Barrie (0040030920)
