Deep energy retrofits are complex and costly – but also unpredictable. Each building has its own unique characteristics, shaped by its history, systems, and structure.
For Killam Apartment REIT and KingSett Capital, effectively managing a retrofit means moving beyond generic modelling tools. It requires real-time data, on-site assessments, and most importantly, a deep respect for the people who live there.
“You have to approach every building with a clean slate,” says Kit Milnes, VP of sustainability and resilience at KingSett. “A strategy that works on one building might completely fall apart on the next, even if they look the same on paper.”
That’s why Killam and KingSett have partnered fifty-fifty on a decarbonization study at Ottawa’s Kanata Lakes community. They’re currently undertaking carbon pathway studies for five high-rise residential buildings along with their shared clubhouse within the Willam’s Court complex.
The study is supported by the Ottawa Retrofit Accelerator program by Hydro Ottawa, part of a larger strategy to decarbonize operations while minimizing impact on tenants.
Respecting those who call these buildings home
One element that makes retrofits uniquely complex – and vital – is the delicate balance between essential construction and minimizing disruption to residents’ daily lives. These aren’t just buildings; they’re homes, and finding the right approach to upgrades while respecting that is paramount.
“These are people’s homes. That has to be front and centre,” says James Tilley, energy and carbon mitigation project manager at Killam. “It’s not just about validating assumptions on-site. It’s also about understanding residents’ needs and doing everything we can to implement changes in a way that has only positive impacts.”
Milnes agrees. “It’s very different from retrofitting an office or a hotel. With multi-residential, you’re disrupting people’s lives — and you want to be sure they not only understand what’s happening, but how it’s going to benefit them.”
That mindfulness extends to the timing of upgrades. Killam and KingSett won’t push ahead with a retrofit unless major systems are nearing end-of-life or unless the financial and environmental benefits clearly outweigh the disruption.
Getting retrofit right: The role of real-time data
To control cost and ensure results, the team uses real-time sub-metered data and in-house modelling tools to right-size systems and assess feasibility before a single wall is opened. “We’ve seen too many modelling programs that promise a turnkey strategy — but they always miss something,” says Milnes. “That’s why we built our own tool. But even then, it’s just a starting point.”
It’s the Ottawa Retrofit Accelerator program that helps take things from theory to practice.
Through carbon pathway studies — up to 75 per cent funded — Killam and KingSett can bring in experts to physically assess the buildings and validate what can’t be seen from behind a screen: Hidden electrical constraints, structural surprises, and unforeseen resident impacts.
“In-person reviews increase our ability to identify critical issues before they cause issues for a project,” says Tilley.
Why Killam and KingSett are investing big – together
The partnership between Killam and KingSett is equal in both capital and commitment. Killam brings deep experience in residential property management and sustainability, while KingSett adds strategic financing and a strong decarbonization roadmap. Together, their goal is clear: To make deep energy retrofits financially viable, operationally sound, and resident-focused.
Killam is targeting a 15 per cent reduction in carbon emissions and intensity by 2030, while KingSett aims for a 67 per cent reduction by 2035, guided by the Science Based Targets initiative.
For both, success depends on getting each retrofit right — from what’s behind the walls to who’s living behind the doors.
To learn how the Ottawa Retrofit Accelerator can support your next retrofit project with funding and on-site expertise, visit hydroottawa.com/ora.
