Environmental certification programs recognized by Desjardins

The Desjardins Green Homes Program recognizes 4 certification programs that promote green homes.

For green building

LEED® Canada

There are 2 LEED® Canada certifications available, based on the size of your project:

LEED certification is an internationally recognized standard that attests to a building's high performance in 8 categories related to health and the environment:

  • Innovation and design
  • Locations and linkages
  • Sustainable sites
  • Water efficiency
  • Energy and atmosphere
  • Materials and resources
  • Indoor environmental quality
  • Awareness and education

LEED homes use less energy, water and natural resources. They produce less waste and they are healthier and more comfortable for their occupants.

Unlike Novoclimat, LEED certification doesn't provide financial assistance. However, a LEED certified home generally meets Novoclimat requirements.

Novoclimat (Quebec only)

Novoclimat promotes the construction of new, high energy performance homes. Novoclimat qualified homes can save around 20% on energy costs compared to homes built in compliance with the Quebec Construction Code, and also afford occupants with greater comfort and better air quality.

The Novoclimat program also provides financial assistance. Original owners of new Novoclimat certified homes receive $1,000 from the Ministère des Ressources naturelles du Québec.

Condos and residential rental properties with 2 to 4 units and where the owner is an occupant are not eligible for this financial assistance.

Learn more about Novoclimat.

ENERGY STAR® for New Homes (Ontario only)

ENERGY STAR for New Homes is available in Ontario. ENERGY STAR homes are on average 20% more energy-efficient than homes built according to the Ontario Building Code. They meet strict technical specifications by licensed builders and are subject to a quality assurance program.

Learn more about ENERGY STAR for New Homes.

Unlike Novoclimat, ENERGY STAR doesn't provide financial assistance.

For green renovations

Rénoclimat (Quebec only)

The Rénoclimat program helps improve home energy efficiency and save an average 20% in heating costs. With Rénoclimat financial assistance and the resulting energy savings, renovations can pay for themselves in a few years. Rénoclimat financial assistance amounts were increased by 60% in 2012.

Learn more about Rénoclimat.

The ENERGY STAR® mark is administered and promoted in Canada by Natural Resources Canada and used with permission.

LEED® is a trademark owned by the Canada Green Building Council and is used by permission.