In 2016 we laid the foundations for what would become the Building Energy Challenge. After two years of work, reflection, discussions, meetings and preparations, in 2018 the first edition of the BEC made its début. In Year 1 a total of 157 buildings and property management companies were on board and took concrete action to make important changes in energy consumption. We have come a long way since then, but let’s not mince words: we still have a long way to go.
What we are most proud of is seeing in the participants a real desire to take control of this pressing issue of improving energy performance and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, despite the context of the past two years. Many teams took advantage of the situation to implement energy efficiency and thermal recovery projects aimed at better energy management and GHG reductions, actions that will bear fruit in the years to come. We would also like to acknowledge the exceptional commitment of the Technical Committee, which was able to adapt quickly and provide a large number of publications, resources, training sessions and webinars on energy management during the pandemic.
A new culture of energy management is gradually gaining ground in real estate and property management firms. We are already seeing a stronger commitment, which is very encouraging. As Program Director and Chair of the Technical Committee, our respective roles in the BEC give us a front row seat to this large-scale mobilization. The BEC is, of course, not the only driving force; we have no such pretensions. But it has proven its worth and relevance, as evidenced by the ever-increasing number of participants and the loyalty of committed partners who have made this impressive project possible.
We began with a vision of voluntary participation to embark on this environmental challenge, to make clear progress on a pressing issue. By dint of perseverance and passion, we have succeeded in rallying many employees and partners to take part. Few environmental initiatives are as broad-based and involve all levels of government, public corporations, universities, energy consultants, real estate companies and the business community.
Far be it from us to stop. On the strength of what we have learned, plus our network and our support, the BEC will continue. It is embarking on its second edition with even more energy and determination, and is now launching an even more ambitious challenge by the industry and for the industry, the goal being a carbon neutral sector by 2050. Will you be part of it?
Congratulations to all participants. Thanks to you, we are all winners.
We’ll see you soon with more on this compelling challenge!
Mario Poirier
Program Director and Co-instigator
Geneviève Gauthier
Chair of the Technical Committee and Co-instigator
