CCI Manitoba Chapter News

Obstacles persist for improved energy efficiency in condos

A recent article, Barriers stall deep energy retrofits in condo sector, by Rebecca Melnyk for CondoBusiness highlights the need for governments to update regulations and policies to make it easier for condo corporations to invest in long term energy savings. In the Manitoba context, significant changes to common elements (such as for a geothermal system or installation of solar panels) require written approval from at least 80% of the unit owner voting percentages. As well, it is unclear if reserve funds could be used for such improvement projects unless required because of building code changes. Another factor is that government grants and low interest loan programs seldom consider condo corporations as a significant portion of residential homes.

This topic has been covered by CCI Manitoba several times in the past few years. For further reading, here are some links

Condominium Reserve Fund Studies - Should there be more?

Condominium Reserve Fund Studies - The Next Steps

Considering Energy Efficiency As Part Of The Reserve Fund Study (RFS) Process

Petition Advocating Financial Support for Condominium Corporations