The Cost of Higher Performing Energy Code: What it Means for Alberta
Workshop Session
What will higher-performing energy codes mean for Alberta’s building industry in practice? This session examines the current energy performance of new construction across the province, drawing on permit data and findings from a costing charrette that modelled higher-tier construction. Participants will explore the cost implications, trade-offs, and industry challenges associated with achieving higher levels of energy performance, including the changes anticipated under the 2025 National Building Code. The session will connect regulatory requirements with real-world construction practices, highlighting where opportunities exist to improve efficiency while managing cost, uncertainty, and implementation challenges. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how evolving energy codes may shape Alberta construction and where practical pathways to higher performance can be found.
Joseph Henke
Joseph (Joe) Henke is dedicated to reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and developing a healthy community. Before joining ENBIX, Joe worked as a Residential Energy Advisor (REA) under the Greener Home program, working with homeowners to reduce their emissions.
He is a recent graduate of the Lakeland College Sustainable Energy Technology program and became a Certified Energy Manager (CEM). He has also studied GHG emissions accounting and sustainability management. Joe is a materials engineer with a degree in Materials Science from the University of Alberta. Prior to working on emissions reductions and the built environment, he worked in heavy industrial processing and steel manufacturing.
When Joe is not working, he can be found playing hockey and spending time with family.