Atlantic Canada Deep Retrofit Roadmap Project

This data-driven project develops essential tools to accelerate deep retrofits in Atlantic Canada. In collaboration with partner organizations, it conducts research and gathers building data to create an open-source building archetype database and detailed roadmaps outlining short-, medium-, and long-term strategies for implementing deep retrofit initiatives in the region.

Smarter building decisions

Deep retrofit projects can be costly. Ensure you have the best tools and resources available before you commit.

Facts and stats

Homes and buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Canada, accounting for 12-17% of the country’s total emissions.

Approximately 90% of the Atlantic Building stock is residential buildings, out of which 70% is single family detached homes.

In Atlantic Canada—buildings are responsible for up to 42% of provincial emissions, with urban centers like Halifax seeing buildings contribute as much as 70% of the city’s annual GHG emissions.

In March 2022, the Canadian federal government released the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP), aiming to reduce national GHG emissions to 40-45% below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

of existing buildings are estimated to require deep retrofits annually to meet these targets.

How we are doing it

Step 1: Collect

Gather the Data

We combine federal, provincial, municipal, and private datasets to create a full picture of Canada’s building stock.

Step 2: Analyze

Map the Opportunity

We turn complex datasets into clear insights that reveal retrofit priorities and pathways.

Step 3: Deliver

Build the Toolkit

We translate analysis into tools and strategies that drive retrofit execution.

Our approach

  • Conduct research to contextualize the building stock in Atlantic Canada.
  • Compile and share all data in accordance with the Indigenous principles of Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession (OCAP®).
  • Develop, monitor, and maintain a comprehensive database detailing the characteristics of building archetypes across Atlantic Canada.
  • Develop two deep retrofit roadmap pathways; one for retrofits where prefabricated panelized over-cladding is recommended and one where a more conventional approach is appropriate.
  • Share findings to accelerate retrofit initiatives both regionally and nationally.

Explore more about our data-driven project

We’re transforming building data into actionable insights with interactive dashboards to identify high-impact retrofit opportunities, help funders, policymakers, and owners plan smarter, cost-effective, and sustainable interventions.

FAQs

Creating scalable movement towards decarbonization requires efforts across many sectors including research, practice and policy. The collaboration is essential for identifying the what, when, and how of professional education and training. Collaborative structures between academia, industry, and government further help by defining what skills are needed.

The when can be identified through continuous dialogue between employers and training providers, aligning education delivery with workforce transition timelines.

The how emerges from shared infrastructure: modular training programs, mentorship pipelines, and hands-on labs co-developed by public agencies, post-secondary institutions, and industry.

At ReCover, we like to nurture local talent through internships that provide meaningful, hands-on learning experiences aligned with real projects in decarbonization and deep energy retrofits.

Case Studies

Our partners

service spotlight

Building Transformation Program

Seeking a clear implementation plan that addresses energy use and aligns retrofit opportunities with your building?
Our dedicated team can help.