Innovation and technological improvements among construction industry stalwarts are helping deliver a more efficient, environmentally sustainable and economically competitive generation of buildings and infrastructure projects across Vancouver Island, while provincial dollars are helping showcase made-in-BC initiatives to broader markets.

The provincial government, through the CleanBC Building Innovation Fund has earmarked nearly $10 million for 21 low-carbon building solutions throughout British Columbia, including a $230,000 investment towards Pacifica Housing’s fuel-switching measures and structure envelope upgrades at one of its Victoria-based multi-unit residential buildings. The changes, according to proponents, could yield an 80 per cent or greater reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and their successful adoption likely to set the stage for rapid uptake of similar programs.

Additional monies were awarded to concepts like testing and design certification of FPInnovations’ 3D-printed high-quality, low-cost and energy-efficient homes utilizing residual wood fibres in lieu of traditional materials, the City of Fort St. John’s net-zero energy-ready RCMP detachment, and StructureCraft Ltd.’s software platform to assist with the design, engineering, fabricating and installation of mass timber structures. Financial awards totalled $450,000, $100,000 and $380,000, respectively, among this trio of the 21 chosen applicants.

“These projects are great examples of how homegrown innovation and technology are putting us on the path to a cleaner, better future,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. “Through the Building Innovation Fund, we are investing in projects that showcase British Columbian expertise, reduce pollution, increase energy efficiency and stimulate local economies. By using clean energy more efficiently in our buildings, we’re helping people reduce energy costs, mitigate climate impacts, and improve air quality.”

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