Flora provides specialized energy and carbon consulting services to optimize building performance, ensure regulatory compliance, and help projects and industry navigate the path to decarbonization. Our approach is rooted in a deep commitment to collaboration and integrated design, and Flora proudly partners with leading experts in the delivery of multi-disciplinary project scopes.

Deep Retrofit and Adaptive Reuse Projects

Our approach to Deep Energy/Carbon Retrofits (including building conversion retrofits) is based on a detailed, client-centered, and data-driven process, informed by industry best practices in the design and implementation of energy-saving retrofits.

• Baseline Energy Modelling: We conduct detailed energy auditing and calibrated modelling to accurately assess the building's existing energy performance, and identify opportunities for energy and carbon reduction as well as building system optimization.

• Tailored Recommendations: Using iterative and parametric energy modelling, we analyze various upgrade scenarios to determine optimized retrofit pathways. The approach is based on best practices in design/equipment for deep retrofit projects, including consideration of envelope-first design, compatible mechanical equipment, decarbonized heating systems

• Strategic Implementation Planning: Upgrade recommendations consider opportunities for phased implementation, ensuring the plan is aligned with both the client's asset management plans and funding opportunities.

• Client Collaboration: Recognizing the inherent complexity of deep retrofit projects, we work closely with building owners and project collaborators to understand the goals, needs, and operational considerations that impact the building.

High-Performance New Construction Projects

Flora offers design energy modelling for new buildings, using IESVE simulation software to analyze building performance. 

• Design Optimization: Utilizing energy simulations and technical expertise in building science and mechanical systems, we provide design optimization consulting from concept through to construction, applying integrated design strategies to identify carbon-reducing measures and approaches that best align with the project's vision and needs and address multiple socio-economic-environmental parameters. 

• Envelope Performance Analysis: We assess envelope design alternatives to mitigate the impacts of thermal bridging and maximize the thermal performance of envelope systems in new buildings, in conjunction with overall design optimization.

• Code Compliance Analysis and Documentation: With significant experience in the implementation of performance–based energy codes, we offer industry-leading expertise to ensure projects are equipped to achieve the mandatory performance standards established by the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB).

• Financing and Certification Programs: Whether the project scope includes CMHC financing, LEED® certification, or other program framework, we offer guidance and facilitation based on in-depth knowledge of program targets and applicable deliverables, to ensure all requirements are achieved. 

Climate Resilience and Nature-Positive Design 

Flora offers sustainability consulting to support optimization of non-energy benefits, including climate resilience and circular design:

• Climate Resilience in Indoor Spaces: By integrating future climate scenario analyses into building energy models, we proactively assess and recommend design and system adjustments to optimize climate resilience, protecting the building and its occupants from increasing heat, extreme weather events, and other climate-related risks.

• Regenerative and Circular Design: Working with expert collaborators, we evaluate opportunities for regenerative and circular design measures that achieve positive ecological impact; these include low-carbon, sustainable, and reclaimed/repurposed materials, as well as integration of nature-based solutions.. These initiatives aim to minimize waste, maximize useful lifespan, restore ecological health of the site and surrounding area — while providing high value to building owners and users.

Technical Studies and Program Development 

Flora works with public and private institutions through focused evaluations to enable strategic policy and program development:

• Energy Code Impact Assessments: We conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate the potential impacts of new or proposed energy codes on building practices, costs, and performance, helping institutions understand and prepare for regulatory changes.

• Market Characterization Studies: Based on comprehensive market data, archetypal energy modelling, and industry consultation, we offer characterization studies to assess the current state of specific markets (e.g., low-carbon technology adoption, deep retrofit feasibility) to inform program design and investment strategies.

• Training Program Curriculum Development: With a background in the development and delivery of technical training programs for energy and sustainability, we provide curriculum development services for specialized educational programs and workshops to empower teams with knowledge on deep retrofit strategies, low-carbon operations, and emerging energy codes.