For Builders

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Ensure your next project hits its targets, provides cost savings for your clients and is comfortable, efficient, and resilient—with expert guidance from a Registered Energy Advisor (REA).

Whether you are looking to meet a specific building code energy performance target, verify a project’s energy performance for a home labelling program, or just find better ways to make your next project more efficient, comfortable and cost effective for your clients, working with a registered EA gives you access to trusted insights and practical recommendations.

Who are Energy Advisors?

Energy Advisors (EAs) are specially trained individuals registered with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) to assess the energy performance of new and existing homes across Canada. Learn more about EAs.

What to Expect from an Energy Evaluation

A home energy evaluation typically includes:

  • A walk-through inspection to collect data on insulation, windows, heating systems, and more (existing homes); or
  • A thorough plan review and data collection of all relevant building specifications (new construction);
  • Energy modeling using NRCan’s HOT2000 software;
  • A blower door test to measure air leakage;
  • A customized report with recommendations for upgrades to meet homeowner goals, local building code or incentive program requirements;
  • An official EnerGuide label showing your home’s energy performance

Going to work with an EA? Working with an EA document provides you with useful guidelines.

Additional Energy Advisor Services

In addition to providing home energy evaluations, many Energy Advisors have expanded skillsets and training, including Integrated Design Process (IDP) facilitation, CSA F280 Whole-Home calculations and HVAC design support and advanced building science knowledge. Be sure to talk to your EA about the additional services they can provide.

Integrated Design Process (IDP) Facilitation

CACEA members currently have access to Integrated Design Process (IDP) facilitation training, providing added value to a project by bringing together key personnel in both new and existing construction scenarios to help ensure a project is carried out in a cost effective and efficient manner while also providing the most effective energy saving opportunities for the client. Want to learn more about the IDP process and our qualified facilitators? Click here

CSA F280-12 Whole-home Calculations and HVAC Support

CSA F280-12 whole-home heat loss and heat gain calculations provide verification that residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are properly sized for efficiency and comfort. This calculation is increasingly required by incentive programs across Canada. Many of CACEA’s members have completed the CSA F280-12 training and can provide these whole-home HVAC system calculations. In addition, CACEA members have access to CACEA’s Airflow Duct Testing Training, providing them the skillset to assess duct capacity and ensure adequate airflow throughout the home. Want to find out more about CSA F280-12 calculations and airflow duct testing, including a list of our qualified members? Click here

Advanced Building Science

Many of CACEA’s EA members have developed a deep understanding of the principles of advanced building science through years of training, education and on-site experience. Not all new or existing home projects are straightforward, which is why working with a knowledgeable EA can ensure a project avoids unintended consequences, such as occupant health and safety, comfort and efficiency concerns. Our Master Energy Advisor designation is awarded to highly experienced member EAs and recognizes advanced expertise and professional excellence, including in the subject of building science, and the house-as-a-system concept. Ask your EA about their advanced skillset and training to see what other ways they can benefit your project. Want to better understand the importance of building science or the house-as-a-system concept? Click here

Why Do Energy Advisor Costs Vary?

EAs may charge different rates depending on their experience, region, services offered, and travel distance. Some EAs include additional services—like helping you understand your upgrade options, considering a retrofit roadmap or rebate paperwork (program dependent)—while others may offer a basic evaluation only. Like any professional service, pricing reflects the scope of work, time involved, and local market conditions. If you are unsure, ask your EA what is included in their quote.

Ask your EA what services and support they can provide in your retrofit journey.

We’re Here to Help

Need Help Finding a Qualified EA?

CACEA’s directory connects you with reliable, NRCan-registered EAs near you.

Find an EA

Questions? Contact info@cacea.ca