In Fort Saskatchewan, AB, Heartland Housing Foundation (HHF) has transformed the local affordable housing landscape with its first net-zero energy building. Completed in June 2023, this innovative 83-unit complex was designed to meet high sustainability standards while addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in the area. Supported by the Green Municipal Fund (GMF)’s Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, HHF’s project demonstrates how affordable, energy-efficient housing can be both impactful and scalable.

A critical addition to Fort Saskatchewan’s housing options

Fort Saskatchewan, a growing community near Edmonton, has faced significant challenges in meeting the affordable housing needs of local families, single parents, and individuals with disabilities. The HHF project responded to this demand by introducing a range of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, all offered at below-market rates. Within 80 days of opening, the building was fully occupied, and a waitlist quickly formed, highlighting the community’s strong need for accessible, affordable housing. “We could fill another building today if we had it,” shared Nancy Simmonds, CEO of HHF, reflecting on the overwhelming demand.

Sustainability and affordability working together

At its core, the new development reflects HHF’s commitment to both environmental sustainability and long-term affordability. Equipped with 1,100 solar panels, a high-performance building envelope, and electric HVAC systems, the complex achieves net-zero energy usage by generating as much energy as it consumes. The benefits extend directly to residents, reducing utility costs and helping families save for their future. 

“This project proves that net-zero design doesn’t have to increase costs for non-profit organizations when grants are available to support these innovations,” said Simmonds. 

HHF’s design choices demonstrate how sustainable solutions can reduce the operational costs of affordable housing, benefiting both tenants and the environment.

Building community through partnerships

HHF has collaborated with several community partners to enhance resident support and well-being. The Robin Hood Association, which assists individuals with disabilities, occupies eight units in the building and provides vital onsite services to its clients. By offering accessible, integrated housing, HHF helps the Robin Hood Association support residents in a way that fosters community and independence. Additionally, HHF has partnered with Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), which conducts outreach for residents who may need extra support. “It’s important to us that our tenants feel supported,” Simmonds explained. “Through these partnerships, we’re not just providing housing; we’re helping residents thrive.”

Overcoming challenges and looking forward

The journey to complete the net-zero project was not without its challenges. Delays in securing utility agreements meant the building’s solar systems weren’t fully operational until eight months after opening. Yet, HHF persevered, learning valuable lessons along the way. “We’ve had to think creatively within the constraints of our funding, but it’s been worth it. We now have a model we can replicate in future projects,” Simmonds noted.

Looking forward, HHF is already planning its next development in Sherwood Park, where a 100-unit project will serve a range of residents, from seniors to single parents. With each new project, HHF aims to incorporate the lessons learned from Fort Saskatchewan, including the importance of community spaces and adaptable unit sizes. 

“Our goal is to build housing that supports long-term community and resilience,” Simmonds emphasized. “This project has given us the confidence and insights to keep moving forward.”

A model for sustainable affordable housing

The Fort Saskatchewan project is an example of what’s possible when affordability meets sustainability. Through its innovative design, community-centered approach, and strategic partnerships, HHF has set a new standard for affordable housing in Alberta. 

“Providing safe, affordable, and sustainable homes allows families and individuals to build their futures in a place they’re proud to call home.”

In Eastern Ontario, CABN has brought an ambitious vision to life with the completion of its first net-zero affordable home pilot, featuring a patent-pending energy-informed design mechanism. Supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s (GMF) Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, this project reimagines sustainable construction, paving the way for affordable housing solutions that are energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and replicable across Canada and beyond.

A fast and sustainable build

Despite beginning construction in the heart of winter, CABN completed the building’s core structure in just 48 hours, with final touches finished in a matter of weeks. This rapid construction proved the viability of building in extreme conditions, demonstrating that sustainable prefabricated housing is achievable even in remote or underserved areas.

Powered entirely by solar energy, the home operates with zero utility costs and consumes only 6,485 kWh annually—63 percent less energy than a typical passive house, a building standard focused on ultra-low energy use and high insulation. 

“Our home uses 20 percent of the energy of a conventional build,” shared Alex Kelly, CABN’s Chief Operating Officer. “This creates new opportunities for communities to unlock land previously considered unfit for development.”

A community hub for innovation and learning

The pilot home serves as a community hub, engaging local leaders, housing providers, and builders to explore sustainable housing options. CABN hosted an open house for municipal officials and affordable housing providers to showcase the innovative design and encourage adoption in their own communities. Augusta Township’s leaders have expressed interest in expanding the project, potentially using municipal land for future developments.

Additionally, CABN established CABN Foundation, its non-profit arm, that partners with municipalities and developers to bring affordable, sustainable housing to remote, low-income, and Indigenous communities. For example, they are exploring partnerships with First Nations in Northern Ontario to build live-work housing for healthcare professionals. 

“These homes come in prefabricated pieces—like a kit—allowing us to build quickly, even in areas with narrow construction windows,” Kelly explained. 

This makes the model especially appealing to communities that face challenges like shorter building seasons or limited access due to ice road closures.

Environmental and financial impact

The environmental benefits of CABN’s design are significant. Compared to traditional builds, CABN produces 60 percent fewer greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, thanks to the use of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified cross-laminated timber (CLT) for its walls, ceilings, and floors. For the pilot home alone, this resulted in a reduction of 3,393 kg of CO₂ emissions. Additionally, the home’s off-grid operation, powered by solar panels, avoids another 3,542 kg of CO₂ annually. These environmental savings scale dramatically in larger developments: a five-year production of 500 homes could prevent 47,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.

The financial impact is equally compelling. CABN's manufacturing processes—optimized through component-based design—promise a savings of up to $85 per square foot. Beyond construction, low maintenance requirements and zero energy costs offer significant savings to homeowners and housing providers.

A model for replication and growth

The pilot project has proven that CABN’s approach is scalable and adaptable. The team is currently developing a multi-residential model to meet the needs of urban environments. This new design will allow for stacked townhouses or single-level apartments, accommodating diverse needs, including seniors and families with accessibility requirements.

Meanwhile, in Toronto, CABN is working with non-profit partners, such as Two Steps Home, to introduce transitional housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. This model features individual units surrounding shared amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities. 

“Our goal with partners like Two Steps Home is to provide people with a secure place to live while they transition to more permanent housing solutions,” said Kelly.

CABN has also worked with the Community Housing Transformation Centre to develop a guidebook on creating sustainable, equitable housing communities. This resource will provide municipalities with a blueprint for integrating CABN’s model into their housing strategies, further driving innovation across the sector.

A future-focused approach

Looking ahead, CABN is expanding its partnerships to explore innovative materials and construction methods, such as alternative CLT materials—a sustainable, engineered wood product used for walls, ceilings and floors—including red pine and bamboo, as well as geothermal energy solutions. Collaborations with institutions like Carleton University further position CABN at the forefront of sustainable housing innovation.

As Augusta Township prepares for rapid population growth—fueled by new industry bringing considerable growth to the region—housing has become an urgent priority. CABN’s collaboration with the township to build a community of 67 units in a unique biomimicry-informed design, offers a sustainable and scalable solution to meet this rising demand. “The municipality has been actively seeking solutions—we’re excited to work with them on this,” Kelly noted.

From pilot to movement

What began as a single pilot home has become a catalyst for conversations about sustainable, affordable housing across Canada. The CABN project offers more than just shelter—it presents a blueprint for future communities, balancing environmental responsibility with economic and social impact.

“This project has been a springboard for incredible conversations and opportunities,” Kelly reflected. “It’s proof that sustainable, affordable housing isn’t just a dream—it’s a reality we can build today.”

New Dawn Enterprises’ Pine Tree Park project in Cape Breton, NS, has reached a transformative milestone. With deep energy retrofits complete and a solar array—a system of multiple solar panels that capture sunlight and turn it into electricity—now operational, the project is delivering tangible benefits to residents and reshaping the future of affordable housing for the organization. Supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s (GMF) Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, Pine Tree Park isn’t just about energy savings—it’s about enhancing quality of life, building community pride, and creating a sustainable future.

Immediate impact

For residents, the upgrades have made a noticeable difference. Homes that were once drafty are now well-insulated, offering better temperature control year-round. A switch from oil furnaces to high-efficiency heat pumps has added a new feature many residents never thought they’d need—air conditioning. This summer, with record-breaking heat in Cape Breton, having cool air was no longer a luxury. 

“We experienced six weeks of temperatures above 30°C, which is rare for the region,” explained Erika Shea, President and CEO of New Dawn Enterprises. “Our tenants were able to stay comfortable during the heatwave—something that wouldn’t have been possible before.”

Beyond comfort, the project has brought significant financial relief. Monthly utility bills have been reduced by $200 per household, translating to annual savings of approximately $2,500 per family, or a reduction of about 78 percent from previous costs. 

“We’ve also insulated residents from volatile energy prices,” Shea noted. “With the solar array powering the homes, tenants no longer feel the impact of rising electricity rates across the province.”

A stronger, more resilient community

The retrofits and solar installation have fostered a renewed sense of pride among residents and within the broader community. Pine Tree Park is now home to the largest solar array on Cape Breton Island—an achievement that resonates deeply with the residents, many of whom live in below-market rental units.

“What’s special about this project is that it brings state-of-the-art renewable technology to a low-income community,” Shea said. “This is the opposite of what usually happens, where new technologies are first adopted by wealthier communities. There’s real pride here—our residents feel like they’re part of something significant.”

The collaborative nature of the project was key to its success. New Dawn hosted community meetings throughout the process, giving residents the opportunity to engage with the project, ask questions, and voice concerns. This proactive engagement not only built trust but also reduced disruptions during construction. “Having those conversations early on meant fewer individual concerns along the way,” Shea reflected.

From overwhelmed to empowered: Organizational growth through innovation

Internally, the project has been a game-changer for New Dawn Enterprises. When the initiative was first introduced to the board, the scale of the solar array and the complexity of the retrofits felt daunting. “At the time, we had no in-house expertise in renewables,” Shea admitted. “But now, looking back, we feel empowered. It was a turning point—what once seemed overwhelming is now second nature.”

The success of Pine Tree Park has reshaped New Dawn’s approach to property management. Going forward, retrofitting buildings and integrating renewable energy will be standard practice for every acquisition. 

“It’s like muscle memory now,” Shea said. “We’ve already completed feasibility studies for two more solar arrays, and we’re working toward net-zero energy across our entire portfolio.”

Expanding influence and inspiring others

The ripple effects of Pine Tree Park’s success are being felt beyond the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. Other organizations have reached out to New Dawn for guidance, including groups like L ‘Arche (Richmond County, Cape Breton), which provides support and housing to individuals with intellectual disabilities. “We’re an open book,” Shea explained. “We share everything—our funding applications, tender packages, and Indigenous engagement approaches. If we can help others follow in our footsteps, we’ll gladly do it.”

A blueprint for the future

As Pine Tree Park celebrates the completion of its solar garden and retrofits, New Dawn Enterprises is already looking ahead. The organization’s vision is clear: net-zero energy across all properties, new and old. 

“This project transformed more than just homes—it transformed us,” Shea reflected. “Every decision we make now is guided by a sense of climate responsibility and a commitment to eliminating energy poverty.”

Pine Tree Park is a testament to what’s possible when affordable housing and sustainability intersect. It’s a story of innovation, resilience, and community pride—one that New Dawn Enterprises hopes will inspire others to take bold steps toward a sustainable future.

In the mountain town of Rossland, BC, Rossland Yards, an ambitious affordable housing project developed by the Lower Columbia Affordable Housing Society (LCAHS), is making waves. Now that the 37-unit building is complete, LCAHS reflects on the journey, sharing insights into the impact it’s having on residents, the organization, and the community.

A new chapter for LCAHS and its residents

For the LCAHS, which has been providing affordable housing across the Kootenay Boundary region since 2013, the completion of Rossland Yards is a significant milestone. With 19 one-bedroom, 14 two-bedroom units, and 4 three-bedroom, the project directly supports local workers, ensuring the community can house essential service providers and workforce families.

“We've seen strong interest in the one- and three-bedroom units, particularly from singles and families,” said Tanya Dale from LCAHS. The units are reserved for tenants who meet BC Housing’s low- to moderate-income criteria, ensuring that the focus remains on serving the community's workforce.

The building is thoughtfully designed to reflect the needs of Rossland’s residents. Storage is plentiful, recognizing the community’s love of outdoor activities like skiing and camping. Bike storage, a highly sought-after feature, is already packed—underscoring the importance of aligning housing design with local active lifestyles.

Resident feedback: Comfort, security, and efficiency

Rossland Yards has quickly become a preferred home for many, thanks to the building’s high energy-efficiency standards. The project incorporates heat pumps for cooling and heat, triple-pane windows, and a well-insulated envelope, which not only improves comfort but also ensures resilience against extreme weather. 

“People appreciate how quiet and comfortable the building is—it’s not something you find easily in Rossland, where older, drafty homes are common,” Dale noted.

Energy efficiency has been a key goal, and for many residents, it has brought substantial benefits. "Heating costs are significantly lower, which has been a game-changer for tenants transitioning from older, less efficient homes," Dale explained. "While the 24/7 air filtration system does add to electricity use, the overall savings on heating have made a noticeable difference in utility costs for our residents."

Beyond the numbers, the feedback from residents has been overwhelmingly positive. Tenants feel secure in their new homes, appreciating the building’s thoughtful features, including cooling systems for hot summer days—a rarity in the area—and soundproofing between floors, which ensures a peaceful living experience.

Strengthening the organization and the community

Rossland Yards has brought both challenges and exciting new opportunities to the LCAHS. Its location above Rossland City Hall has fostered a strong partnership with the municipality, enabling shared services like snow removal, garbage collection, and building maintenance. 

"Having the city as a partner has been a huge asset, providing visibility and practical support," said Dale. "This project truly shows what’s possible when local governments and housing providers come together."

While the partnership introduced some complexities, such as managing strata governance and insurance due to divided ownership among LCAHS, the City of Rossland, and the Provincial Rental Housing Corporation, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. "If we had to do it again, we might explore simpler models, but the collaborative support has been invaluable," Dale noted.

The impact of Rossland Yards has been substantial, now housing nearly 1 percent of the town’s population—a remarkable achievement for a community of 4,000. 

"It’s incredible to know we’re making such a real difference," Dale reflected. "And while there was some initial hesitation about a larger development downtown, the community has come to embrace it, recognizing the value it brings to Rossland."

Future plans and lessons learned

As the LCAHS looks ahead, the focus remains on ensuring the building serves residents and the community for years to come. “We expect some turnover as people's lives change, but we’re already seeing tenants settle in for the long term,” Dale said. “Our goal is to keep offering stable housing for those who need it.”

“This project has been a learning experience. There were moments when things didn’t go as planned—especially with construction delays—but the results have been worth it. We’ve created something that truly serves the people of Rossland, and we’ve shown that thoughtful design and strong partnerships can overcome challenges.”

A lasting impact on Rossland

With its successful completion, Rossland Yards demonstrates that affordable housing can be more than just shelter—it can enhance quality of life, strengthen community bonds, and contribute to environmental goals. Stories like Rossland Yards remind us of the critical role affordable housing plays in building resilient communities.

LCAHS’s work on Rossland Yards provides a model for future projects across Canada, proving that with the right partnerships and community-focused design, even small towns can make a big impact.

This article is part of a series called Transforming communities with Sustainable Affordable Housing. The series demonstrates how energy-efficient, community-centered housing can foster resilience and well-being. Discover practical solutions for affordable, climate-friendly homes that improve lives and build a sustainable future.

In the heart of Banff, AB, YWCA Banff’s Courtyard Project—now called Priscilla’s Place—has transformed the lives of its residents. Completed in late 2022, this net-zero, pet-friendly complex offers more than just housing. It provides security and a fresh start for those in need, fostering dignity, stability, and community. Supported by the Green Municipal Fund’s (GMF) Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, Priscilla’s Place demonstrates how sustainable affordable housing can be a game-changer.

A new beginning for residents

Priscilla’s Place fills a critical gap in Banff’s housing crisis, providing 33 energy-efficient units to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. “We’ve been in a housing crisis forever,” said Ebony Rempel, CEO of YWCA Banff. “And it’s not just a lack of housing—it’s about having suitable, safe and quality spaces.”

For some residents, Priscilla’s Place is the first stable home they’ve had in years. “There was one couple who were sleeping in their car the week before they moved in,” shared Rempel. “We were rearranging space in our facility just to store people’s furniture and luggage because they’d ended their previous housing arrangements and had nowhere to go.”

In her role as CEO, Rempel doesn’t typically oversee move-ins, but the urgency of the housing crisis called for all hands on deck. “I was doing a walk-through with a woman moving into her unit, and as I was showing her the space, the doorknob fell off the closet,” she recalled with a laugh. “I told her, ‘Don’t worry, we’ll get that fixed.’ But she just looked at me and said, ‘I don’t care about that—where do I sign?’” Rempel reflected on how moments like this underline the transformative impact of having a place to call home: “It was the first time she’d ever been on the lease of her own place.”

Sustainable design for lasting resilience

Priscilla’s Place is not just affordable housing—it’s designed with sustainability in mind. The building features energy-efficient elements, including heat recovery ventilation and modular construction, helping reduce utility costs and minimize environmental impact. The pet-friendly design, bike storage facilities and proximity to trails and public transit align with Banff’s active, sustainable lifestyle, ensuring residents enjoy affordability, convenience and comfort. For example, the bike storage room—large enough to accommodate all 33 units—is consistently packed, while the parking lot remains largely empty. 

“It’s a reflection of how people here live—close to nature, with a strong focus on sustainability,” Rempel observed.

Overwhelming demand and lessons learned

YWCA Banff was surprised by the overwhelming response to the project. “We held an online info session during the pandemic, expecting a small turnout,” Rempel recalled. “Hundreds of people showed up, and applications flooded in.” Priscilla’s Place filled quickly, but the high demand underscored the need for continued housing development in the region.

Balancing high demand with the organization’s mission to serve the most vulnerable was a challenge. “We care deeply about supporting those most in need, but that also meant having to say no to others,” said Rempel. “That was tough—it really brought home how limited affordable housing options are in our community.”

A foundation for stability and independence

At Priscilla’s Place, residents are welcome to stay as long as they need. “Our model is about creating sustainable, permanent housing,” explained Rempel. “We’re not in the business of unhousing people. If someone’s income exceeds the income threshold, we help them transition into independent living.”

The building’s location next to a daycare has created additional opportunities for residents to build community and support each other. 

“One resident babysits her friend’s daughter during an overlap between daycare hours,” Rempel shared. “It’s those little connections that make a big difference.”

Future plans and growing impact

Priscilla’s Place is just the beginning for YWCA Banff. The organization is planning two major projects: a renovation of its main building—the former Mineral Springs Hospital—and a new development in Canmore called Higher Ground. “Higher Ground will be a mix of affordable housing, a women’s shelter, and community hub spaces for social services,” said Rempel. “We’re working with the Town of Canmore to make it a reality.”

Reflecting on Priscilla’s Place, Rempel emphasized how much the organization has learned. “The build was stressful—we faced cost escalations and delays during the pandemic—but we got through it. Now, we have the confidence to do more. Building affordable, sustainable housing isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.”

A model for community and sustainability

Priscilla’s Place shows how affordable housing can be both sustainable and community-centered. It’s not just a building; it’s a lifeline for people who need it most.  

“This project has been really incredible—for the residents and for us as an organization. Many of the people moving in have faced tough circumstances, and giving them a space that’s safe, beautiful, and affordable has been really special.”

Discover inspiring affordable housing projects that are transforming communities across Canada

Affordable housing and sustainability are converging in exciting ways. This series highlights impactful projects funded by the Green Municipal Fund’s (GMF) Sustainable Affordable Housing (SAH) initiative, demonstrating how energy-efficient, community-centered housing can foster resilience and well-being.

Read the series to learn more about the people, communities, and innovative approaches driving affordable, sustainable housing projects nationwide. Discover practical solutions for affordable, climate-friendly homes that improve lives and build a sustainable future.

Articles in the series

YWCA Banff’s Priscilla’s Place: Stability and community in Banff

• YWCA Banff’s Priscilla’s Place provides 33 net-zero, affordable units that offer stability, security, and a new beginning for individuals and families facing housing challenges. Discover how this pet-friendly complex, complete with bike storage and energy-efficient features, has brought comfort and resilience to its residents in Banff.

Rossland Yards: A new chapter for housing in Rossland, BC 

• In Rossland, BC, Rossland Yards has created a welcoming home for local workers. Read about how this 37-unit development balances affordability with sustainability, featuring energy-saving amenities like triple-pane windows and heat pumps, while fostering a tight-knit community through local partnerships.

Pine Tree Park: Renewable energy brings resilience to Cape Breton 

• New Dawn Enterprises’ Pine Tree Park in Cape Breton, NS, is redefining affordable housing with deep energy retrofits and the largest solar array on the island. This project has reduced energy bills for residents and brought a sense of pride to the community, highlighting how renewable energy can elevate quality of life for all.

CABN Co Foundation: Net-zero living in eastern Ontario

• CABN Co’s net-zero housing project offers practical solutions for off-grid, affordable living, where rapid construction and innovative design have turned a pilot home into a model for sustainable growth. Explore how CABN’s approach enables quick, cost-effective building in remote areas and its vision for expanding sustainable housing nationwide.

Heartland Housing Foundation: Building a sustainable future in Fort Saskatchewan

• In Fort Saskatchewan, AB, Heartland Housing Foundation's new net-zero energy building has transformed the local affordable housing landscape. Explore how this innovative 83-unit complex meets high sustainability standards while addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in the area. 

Aspen Heights: Stability and sustainability in Saskatoon

• Aspen Heights, developed by the National Affordable Housing Corporation (NAHC), offers 56 energy-efficient, affordable townhomes in Saskatoon, SK, providing security and support for low-income families, including individuals with specialized needs. Discover how this community-focused development, featuring sustainable design and innovative heating solutions, is transforming lives and setting a new standard for affordable housing in Saskatchewan.

This series was inspired by National Housing Day and the transformative power of SAH funding to create lasting, community-driven change.