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Innovative Energy Solutions for
Next-Generation Buildings

New Construction

For new construction projects, we specialize in energy modelling that first guides design decisions and then demonstrate compliance with codes and standards such as BC Energy Step Code, BC Zero Carbon Step Code, Toronto Green Standard, NECB, as well as certifications like Zero Carbon Building, Passive House, and LEED.

We also support certification pathways such as Zero Carbon Building, Passive House, and LEED, helping projects meet ambitious sustainability goals with confidence.

By providing detailed analyses tailored to your building’s unique needs, we help optimize energy use, reduce emissions, and achieve measurable goals.

Whether it’s designing the newest energy-efficient health care institution or constructing high-performance community facilities, our team brings a wealth of experience to help your projects achieve operational excellence and long-term sustainability.

The Leaf at Assiniboine Park
Photo: Tom Arban, Ema Peter, Richard Seck

SERVICES FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION

Energy Modelling

Energy modelling is the cornerstone of our work. From compliance with codes like BCBC, Step Code, NECB, and VBBL to certifications like Passive House and LEED, we provide detailed analyses tailored to your building’s unique needs.

Whether you’re working on a new construction or a retrofit, our models help optimize energy use, reduce emissions, and achieve measurable sustainability goals. Learn more.

Incentives

Maximizing Financial Benefits for Sustainable Projects

Unlock funding opportunities for your energy-efficient designs with our support. We help identify potential eligibility for capital incentive programs, such as the FortisBC CNC Capital Incentive Program and the CleanBC CNC Incentive Program, tailored specifically for new construction projects. Some programs require additional energy modelling, and we guide you through the process while ensuring you maximize funding opportunities to offset some or all of the associated costs.

Energy Regulation Compliance

Navigating complex energy codes and regulations is easier with Focal. We specialize in compliance with BCBC, NECB, VBBL, and Step Code requirements. Our energy modelling and technical expertise ensure your project meets or exceeds standards, providing peace of mind and a seamless approval process.

Incentive Programs For Funding

Achieving certifications like LEED or Built Green demonstrates your commitment to sustainability. Focal guides you through the energy/ carbon assessment process with our whole building perspective, from early stage energy modelling to final compliance documentation. We help your project meet energy efficiency benchmarks and gain recognition as a leader in green design.

Passive House

Passive House projects demand precision, and that’s our specialty. With expertise in PHPP modelling, airtightness testing, and design support capabilities, we help your project meet rigorous Passive House standards. Whether it’s a residential build or a complex mixed-use development, we deliver energy-efficient solutions that save money, reduce emissions, and create comfortable, sustainable spaces.

Additional Services

Focal provides comprehensive support beyond energy modelling:

Lifecycle Energy Analyses
Assess mechanical systems to ensure long-term energy efficiency.

Carbon Reduction Strategies
Develop actionable plans to minimize emissions for both new and existing buildings.

Thermal Comfort Studies
Evaluate building resilience for current climate needs and future conditions.

Custom Tool Development
Design tailored tools, guidelines, and training programs to address your unique requirements.

Airtightness Testing
Achieving airtightness is essential for energy efficiency and certifications like Passive House. Partnering with experienced local testers, we provide precise whole-building and suite-specific testing to meet regulatory standards, identify improvement opportunities, reduce energy waste, and improve overall building performance.

Focal’s relationship-driven approach, attention to detail, and
diversity in leadership make them a trusted partner. Their
involvement has boosted our proposal success, increased our
corporate knowledge of energy modelling, and delivered
lasting value to our clients and the communities we serve.

Kaeley Wiseman, Wiser Projects

Our Past Work

Our past work includes partnerships with municipalities, housing societies, architects and developers, reflecting a versatile approach to energy modelling and sustainable building design.

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Past Clients Include

News & Insights

Focal Engineering – Series on CoV EMG v3 Updates
Focal Engineering – Series on CoV EMG v3 UpdatesGuideline

Focal Engineering – Series on CoV EMG v3 Updates

Starting September 15, the City of Vancouver's EMG v3 goes live. Whether you energy model or design buildings, these updates could change your approach. Focal…
Read More
Jennifer Blagborne
Jennifer BlagborneNews

Jennifer Blagborne

It’s with deep sadness that we share the passing of our colleague and friend, Jennifer Blagborne. From the moment Jen joined Focal, we knew we…
Read More
ASHRAE Technology Award Winner for 2024/25
ASHRAE Technology Award Winner for 2024/25News

ASHRAE Technology Award Winner for 2024/25

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news — Focal has been awarded the ASHRAE Chapter and Region XI Technology Award for work developing the Comox…
Read More

Have questions?

Reach out to learn more about how we can help you achieve your energy goals.

Contact Us