Prescriptive Compliance Path
The Prescriptive Path is a checklist-based approach that makes it easy to meet the energy code. It lists specific requirements for each part of the home—like walls, ceilings, foundations, and mechanical systems. If all items on the checklist are met, the home complies with the code. This method is ideal for high-volume builders who use the same construction methods across many homes and want to save on costs.
Performance Compliance Path
The Performance Path uses energy modeling to compare your home’s energy use to that of a standard code-built home. If your design uses the same or less energy, it passes. After the home is built, a blower door test is done, and the home receives an EnerGuide label from Natural Resources Canada.
EnerGuide Rating System Compliance
This option offers the same design flexibility as the Performance Path, but also includes EnerGuide labeling. To comply, your home must be at least 5% more energy efficient than a typical new home, and a blower door test is required.
To complete a 9.36 energy model, we’ll need:
House plans
Window and equipment details
Mechanical system specs (heating, hot water, ventilation)
Wall and roof construction types
Foundation details
House orientation
Any special features (vaulted ceilings, cantilevers, etc.)
