New Brunswick has introduced a Green Building Policy intended to reduce significantly the energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of government buildings.
The first phase of the policy went into effect April 1. It applies to all new construction and major renovation projects for Parts I through IV of the public service. The second phase will become effective Jan. 1, 2011, for organizations that receive funding from the province.
Under the first phase of the policy, larger buildings, defined as those greater than 2,000 sq. m, will be required to achieve a minimum certification of LEED Silver or Green Globes 3 Globes (considered a LEED silver equivalent under the policy).
Smaller buildings, those between 500 and 2,000 sq. m, will be required to follow Efficiency NB's Core Performance Guide for energy efficiency as well as fulfill a list of green building requirements.
Under the policy, exceptions will be permitted for special circumstances—heritage and temporary/seasonal buildings, for example—and work has begun to expand the policy to apply to existing government buildings as well as leased space used by the provincial government.