Canadian fashion retailer Simons opened its first net-zero store this year in Quebec City.
The 80,000 sf store is outfitted with solar panels on the roof and in the parking lot, and incorporates a geothermal heating system. Simons aims to generate considerable marketing benefits from its green efforts.
The private company built a podium in a Londonderry, Ontario store that displays current solar generation, how much electricity was used to date, what the offset is between the two, along other key metrics like how many liters of gasoline have been diverted from the use of the charging stations. The company’s director of store development says she has a mandate to build more net-zero stores, with three more in the pipeline.
Retailers across Canada have been raising sustainability standards for their buildings over the past 10 years. IKEA's Edmonton outlet, for instance, has rooftop and parking lot PVs that generate 50% of the store’s electrical needs.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2018
First RFP requiring modular construction on New York City housing project issued
Part of Housing 2.0 modular construction initiative.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
Buffalo, N.Y., contractor exec pleads guilty to fraud for bid rigging on $750 million contract
LPCiminelli stops functioning as GC in fallout from the case.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
LEED should be updated to combat climate change
Hasn’t kept pace with urgency of problem, says clean energy investor.
Codes and Standards | Jun 5, 2018
Sports stadiums and arenas showcase sustainability features
Green venues save owners money, gain positive publicity.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
L.A. must transition to cleaner energy, boost transit to reach sustainability goals
City aims to reduce GHGs 60% by 2035 and 80% by 2050.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
Washington D.C.’s flattened skyline can be a virtue
Zoning ordinance that ties building heights to width of streets dictates form.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
Silicon Valley cities considering taxes aimed at large employers
The aim is to offset the impact on housing costs and homelessness by tech companies.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
OSHA proposes new crane operator safety rule
Would provide long-term clarity on certification requirements.
Codes and Standards | May 29, 2018
Government support helping to drive demand for green building materials
Market projects to grow 12.5% annually between 2013 and 2019.
Codes and Standards | May 24, 2018
‘Amazon tax’ could slow Seattle’s construction boom
City imposes employer head count tax to fund affordable housing.