Hi,

Regarding Netzero certification, I've heard the Energystar portion of this might be dropped. Is that the case?

Thanks

Yeah I expect Energuide to still be a part of it. I was referring the the Energy Star certification requirement for EAs. I've heard that that this is getting dropped which would be good since I don't use it and I suspect most other EAs don't either. 

Ah  i see.  As you my know NRCan is reviewing the ENERGY STAR program as the harmonized tiered building code needs to be considered.

CHBA is waiting to see what changes may be made to the label and how it can (or cannot) be incorporated into the NZ/NZr label. Once they have a clearer picture they will review the label requirements. Nothing can be done until after the election. For now nothing has changed - although there could be changes in the future.

Net Zero training has several challenges besides Trump ending EnergyStar.

In my opinion, NZ needs one or more robust programs like PHPP because Hot2000 is not capable or open-sourced. The trouble is PHPP is very difficult and expensive for the average EA.

My hope is Volta aligns with DesignPH to 3D model using Sketchup for modeling.

The other big issue is CHBA having a Monopoly on Net Zero. An EA must be a CHBA member at $1400 each year, plus $1200 fee to join under them as an SO. $2600 is a big amount to take a NZ course. 

Form our experience being a Net Zero member in 2013-2014, there has been virtually no money as an EA over 12 years. Under 3000 projects in 10 years across Canada is about 300/yr avg. with about 30 in BC avg. Net Zero fails to have a reasonable business case for an average EA. Maybe a CHBA insider can scoop 1/2 the projects and say it is here now, but paying out $1400 less a $400 rebate and not getting any files is unwise.