Transformative change: energy-efficiency and social housing retrofits in Canadian cities

Abstract

The article provides the first comparative assessment of the energy-efficiency retrofit programs in social housing of the largest cities in Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, focusing on program efficiency and effectiveness. The analytical framework explores key policy instruments – regulatory, fiscal and institutional – in relation to major results achieved. In terms of efficiency, the grant programs were highly relevant, timely and successful in meeting their objectives generating improvements in two-thirds of the social housing in Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary. The effectiveness was moderate, with targeted approaches to retrofits, integrating both mechanical and building envelope measures with high potential for energy savings. One of the greatest challenges was the high cost of the program, the lack of sustainability in funding and and the cost recovery of comprehensive retrofits..