High-Performance Development Standards
Did you know that buildings are one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) in Waterloo Region?
The High-Performance Development Standards (HPDS) are the new building design standard that will apply to development applications submitted in the Cities of Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, and (ideally) Townships of North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich. This standardized approach across all of the Region's area municipalities will ensure that sustainable and energy related standards are all in one convenient location to support widespread adoption.
The approach, developed in collaboration through WR Community Energy, demonstrates a commitment to improving the energy performance of future buildings, helping the Region to progress towards the target of reducing 80% of GHG emissions by 2050.
WR Community Energy
WR Community Energy (WRCE) is a collaborative initiative between the Region of Waterloo, its urban municipalities and locally-owned utilities created to lead the implementation of Waterloo Region’s Community Energy Investment Strategy (CEIS) and to steward the energy transition in our community.
One of the priorities for the CEIS is to develop the High-Performance Development Standards (HPDS).
More information can be found at WR Community Energy.
Making this change together
We want to ensure that the HPDS aligns with the varying interests of the communities, is relevant to the Region, and supports a transformative shift. WR Community Energy is taking the necessary steps to ensure that this is a community-informed, streamlined process. During the development of the HPDS, WR Community Energy will engage the community and interested stakeholders to gather input and make necessary adjustments to support a well-informed approach.
A first draft of the HPDS will be completed in Fall 2024, a second draft by Spring of 2025, and the final HPDS (ready for implementation) by Spring 2026. During the draft periods, community members and stakeholders will be consulted to ensure the best path forward for Waterloo Region.
