Modelling Performance for a Net-Zero, All-Electric Public Library in Waterloo Region

The Kitchener Public Library Southwest Branch at 100 Rosenberg Way is a net-zero, zero carbon civic building that sets a new standard for municipal sustainability in the Waterloo Region. As the first municipal building in the region to achieve Zero Carbon Building (ZCB) – Design certification from the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC), it demonstrates the City of Kitchener’s commitment to climate action, inclusivity, and reconciliation.

This 14,000 ft² single-storey facility serves as a community hub for reading, digital creation, cultural programming, and wellness, anchoring the city’s growing Rosenberg neighbourhood. Renewable energy systems, a high-performance envelope, and Indigenous-led design engagement make this library a model for net-zero civic infrastructure.

Focal Engineering supported the project through detailed energy and envelope modelling, using
Flixo, EnergyPlus, and IES VE to optimize thermal performance and inform net-zero design.

Technical Highlights
– All-electric building with geothermal heating and cooling
– High-performance envelope with triple glazing, advanced insulation, and excellent airtightness
– Solar PV array offsets annual energy consumption
– Integrated stormwater management with bioswales and rain gardens
– Energy modelling to support ZCB – Design certification

The Impact
The Southwest Branch establishes a scalable model for net-zero civic buildings, combining technical excellence, community engagement, and Indigenous design principles. It positions Kitchener as a regional leader in future resilient public infrastructure.

Project Team
Client: Village Consulting / Kitchener Public Library
Architect: McCallum Sather
Energy Modelling: Focal Engineering
Structural & Electrical: Stantec Consulting
Project Management: Colliers Project Leaders
Landscape: Trophic Design
Indigenous Engagement: SpruceLab, 4-Directions
Commissioning: C3Px Engineering