Regulatory context
On July 13, 2024, Chapter I.1 “Energy Efficiency in Buildings” of the Québec Construction Code came into force. It raises the energy performance requirements for commercial buildings by almost 25% compared to the 2015 edition.
What do these new rules mean in concrete terms?
- Increased insulation: walls separating an air-conditioned room from a non-air-conditioned space must aim for a minimum RSI of around 2.6 (R-15).
- Reducing thermal bridges: floor-wall junctions must be insulated when a concrete core passes through the envelope.
- Airtightness: a blower door test is required for certain buildings over 600 m².
Winning strategies on the inside
- Rigid insulation and air barrier integrated behind lightweight furring: low additional cost and rapid return on investment thanks to reduced heat loss.
- Light-frame partitions filled with high-density mineral wool: simultaneously improve acoustic and thermal performance.
- Reflective ceilings (> 0.85 light reflection): reduce lighting requirements and therefore power consumption.
Responsible materials
- Recycled-content gypsum from regional sources.
- EC1+-compliant plasters with very low VOC content.
- Lightweight steel structures with environmental declarations (EPD).
Take advantage of financial assistance
- Éco Performance (Transition énergétique Québec): grants of up to $75/m² for energy efficiency work.
- Investissement Québec – Green Economy: subsidized loans for companies that reduce their GHG emissions by at least 30%.
Conclusion
By anticipating insulation, choice of finishes and thermal bridge management, you can exceed the new Code 2024 targets without adding to the bill. Altera Solution relies on prefabrication and low-carbon materials to make sustainability compatible with tight construction schedules.
