2025 AGENDA
DAY 1 - JUNE 9
Monday, June 9, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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7:30 AM - 8:30 AM | Start your day with breakfast and networking before the event begins | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:30 AM - 8:35 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:35 AM - 8:45 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:45 AM - 8:55 AM | Our Co-Chair will kick off the event with key insights and an overview of the current policy and regulatory landscape, setting the stage for the 2 days of discussions. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:55 AM - 9:15 AM | Canada's retrofit sector stands at a critical turning point. This session examines how market forces, policy shifts, and technological innovation are creating unprecedented opportunities for transformation. We'll explore how industry leaders are scaling solutions, building capacity, and driving collaboration to achieve climate goals while creating economic value. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:15 AM - 9:40 AM | As Canada accelerates toward net zero, scaling retrofits across Canada is more critical than ever. We will explore the intersection of policy, finance, and technology, offering a bold vision for transforming existing buildings into high-performance, resilient spaces. With insights from global best practices and local success stories, this session will set the stage for two days of action-driven discussions.
Reserved for Minister | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:40 AM - 10:10 AM | This keynote will explore how innovative technologies are driving efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness in the retrofit sector, revolutionizing the way buildings are upgraded for the future. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10:10 AM - 10:40 AM | During the networking break, we encourage you to visit our interactive whiteboards for solution building. Give us your input and help us create our Post Event Retrofit Solutions Report. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10:40 AM - 11:10 AM | Effective retrofits require alignment between building owners, investors, and policymakers. This session explores how behavioral science, policy incentives, and capacity-building strategies drive impactful policy design. Experts will share insights on engaging building owners, unlocking innovative financing, and leveraging real-world case studies to accelerate multi-unit retrofits. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11:10 AM - 11:50 AM | Leading voices from Indigenous communities share their vision for sustainable building transformation. This session explores how Indigenous knowledge, innovative certification programs, and community-led initiatives are creating pathways for economic development while advancing building performance standards. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11:40 AM - 12:40 PM |
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12:40 PM - 1:40 PM |
Residential Retrofits
Monday, June 9, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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1:40 PM - 1:45 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:45 PM - 2:05 PM | This session introduces foundational strategies for improving energy efficiency and resilience in residential retrofits, setting the stage for discussions on financing, policy, and implementation. Experts will discuss cost-effective solutions, overcoming common barriers in retrofit projects, and the role of policy and incentives in driving widespread adoption of energy-efficient practices in residential buildings. • Energy-efficient solutions for residential retrofits. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:05 PM - 2:40 PM | Exploring how utilities are driving large-scale residential decarbonization through incentives, funding programs, and grid integration to make retrofits more accessible and cost-effective. Canadian utilities and energy authorities are pioneering innovative approaches to make residential decarbonization accessible and affordable. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM | This session examines the impact of retrofits on indoor air quality, highlighting strategies to mitigate radon risks while improving home energy efficiency. Airtight buildings reduce energy loss, but they can also impact indoor air quality. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM | Fast-paced presentations showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions that are reshaping residential retrofits.
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4:00 PM - 4:20 PM | A discussion on how new builds influence retrofit policy, scale-up challenges, and the path to achieving Net Zero targets in residential construction. Key insights will focus on aligning new builds with retrofit strategies for a sustainable future. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4:20 PM - 4:50 PM | Exploring financing models, affordability, and equity considerations to ensure decarbonization efforts are inclusive and accessible to all communities.This session will explore strategies to engage marginalized communities in residential retrofits, with a focus on equity, financing models, and decarbonization through electrification and fuel switching. |
Commercial and Large-Scale Retrofits
Monday, June 9, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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1:40 PM - 1:45 PM | Sets the stage for the afternoon by framing the role of commercial retrofits in achieving decarbonization goals while providing continuity from earlier discussions on residential retrofits. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:45 PM - 2:05 PM | This session will showcase real-world examples of emissions reduction through natural gas conversions, demonstrating how efficiency measures are being applied in commercial and large-scale buildings while linking to broader policy and financial considerations. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:05 PM - 2:40 PM | Experts will discuss the financial realities of deep retrofits, exploring how to balance capital investment, leverage incentives, and integrate long-term operational savings to ensure commercial retrofits are both financially and environmentally sustainable. This session will dive into the financial and strategic considerations involved in retrofitting commercial buildings, covering funding options, cost-benefit analysis, and long-term value creation. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:40 PM - 3:00 PM | This session will highlight best practices and emerging trends in deep retrofits, focusing on how commercial building owners and operators can successfully implement large-scale energy efficiency upgrades using the latest technology and financial strategies. Industry experts share practical insights on financing mechanisms, technology integration, and implementation strategies that are making deep retrofits achievable and profitable across diverse building portfolios. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM | This fast-paced session will highlight cutting-edge solutions driving commercial retrofit success, showcasing how innovation is reducing costs, improving efficiency, and transforming retrofit implementation. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4:00 PM - 4:20 PM | Explore the pathways to achieving net-zero emissions in commercial buildings, focusing on the intersection of policy, technology, and financing while addressing regulatory challenges and emerging opportunities. We will discuss innovative solutions, regulatory challenges, and financing models that enable commercial building owners and developers to reach their net-zero goals while balancing cost, efficiency, and sustainability. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4:20 PM - 4:50 PM | This session will conclude the track with real-world examples of large-scale retrofit projects, sharing key insights and lessons learned to help guide future commercial building retrofits. |
Monday, June 9, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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4:50 PM - 5:00 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5:00 PM - 5:10 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5:10 PM - 6:10 PM |
DAY 2 - JUNE 10
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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7:30 AM - 9:30 AM | Start your day with breakfast and networking before the event begins | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:40 AM - 9:00 AM | Learn how one of Canada's largest universities is tackling the challenge of decarbonizing its diverse building portfolio while creating a living laboratory for sustainability innovation. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:00 AM - 9:40 AM | This keynote panel will explore the evolving landscape of retrofit accelerator programs in Canada, highlighting their role in scaling up energy efficiency and decarbonization efforts. Experts will discuss policy frameworks, funding mechanisms, and innovative strategies to drive widespread adoption of retrofits nationwide. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:40 AM - 10:10 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10:10 AM - 10:30 AM | RJC Engineering will present a case study on deep retrofits, highlighting real-world challenges and solutions from completed projects. This session will explore key lessons in structural upgrades, energy efficiency, and cost-effective strategies for decarbonizing existing buildings. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10:30 AM - 10:50 AM | Toronto Hydro is supporting the transition to cleaner energy by offering 200 income-qualified customers free heat pumps and enabling switches to fully electric or hybrid systems. This session will explore cost considerations, emissions reductions, and behavioral shifts. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM | Discover how BCIT has advanced building retrofits through innovation, research, and hands-on training. This session will explore key lessons, challenges, and successes in scaling energy-efficient retrofit solutions across Canada. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM |
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12:30 PM - 1:40 PM |
Finance, Affordability, and Equity
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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1:40 PM - 1:45 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:45 PM - 2:05 PM | This session explores cutting-edge financing approaches that bridge affordability gaps while ensuring energy-efficient housing reaches traditionally underserved communities. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:05 PM - 2:40 PM | Join a panel of municipal leaders as they discuss the challenges and opportunities in advancing energy efficiency and retrofits at the local level. This session will explore policy frameworks, financing strategies, and innovative programs that are driving decarbonization in cities across Canada. Gain insights into how municipalities are tackling barriers and scaling solutions to meet climate and resilience goals. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:40 PM - 3:20 PM | Developers and building owners need strong financial strategies to advance retrofit projects. This session explores key factors beyond energy savings, including regulations, property value, and risk mitigation. Experts will discuss financing models, equity considerations, and emerging technologies that improve affordability and scalability. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:20 PM - 3:50 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:50 PM - 4:20 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4:20 PM - 4:50 PM | Canadian utilities demonstrate how collaborative approaches to funding, grid integration, and cross-sector partnerships are making building decarbonization both accessible and economically viable. This session showcases innovative approaches to funding, grid integration, and cross-jurisdictional collaboration that are accelerating the transition to low-carbon buildings while ensuring energy reliability and affordability. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4:50 PM - 5:00 PM |
Resilience, Adaptation, and Efficiency
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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1:40 PM - 1:45 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:45 PM - 2:05 PM | This session explores how EV infrastructure integration can complement broader building retrofit strategies, creating opportunities for cost-sharing and enhanced energy management across systems. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:05 PM - 2:40 PM | This session will explore how NetZero transition financing is playing a pivotal role in creating equitable opportunities for retrofits, particularly in underserved communities. Experts will discuss the financial models and policies that are making retrofitting more accessible and affordable for all sectors. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:40 PM - 3:20 PM | With rising temperatures and increasing extreme heat events, buildings must be better prepared for cooling. This panel will discuss the challenges and opportunities in retrofitting existing buildings for heat resilience, focusing on policy, technology, and public health. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:20 PM - 3:50 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:50 PM - 4:20 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4:20 PM - 4:50 PM | This session addresses the critical labor and skills development pipeline needed to scale residential retrofits nationally while creating quality employment opportunities across the sector. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4:50 PM - 5:00 PM |
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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5:00 PM - 6:30 PM | Join us for a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience firsthand the diverse approaches to building retrofits through our exclusive off-site tours. |