TRREB’s Government Relations Committee Climate Risk Working Group engaged the City of Toronto’s Building Emissions Performance Standards (BEPS) team to learn more about the City’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings, the largest source of emissions citywide.
City staff shared an overview of the proposed Building Emissions Performance Standards by-law, which will go before City Council later this year. The new standards will cap emissions from multi-unit buildings and promote retrofits that reduce energy and water usage over time. The BEPS framework will roll out gradually, initially targeting the least efficient, large multi-residential buildings while allowing property owners to adapt. Low-rise residential buildings—such as townhouses, multiplexes, and potentially six-storey buildings along major streets—are not expected to be included in the by-law.
City staff emphasized their goal of developing standards that are both financially practical and achievable. They continue to engage with industry stakeholders, such as TRREB, to minimize affordability impacts. The City is also developing programs and incentives to help building owners meet compliance requirements and invest in voluntary retrofits.
To raise awareness and support Members in understanding the BEPS policy, the Working Group will stay informed about emissions reporting requirements, retrofit opportunities, and long-term considerations for improving building performance.
TRREB will continue to engage with the City as the by-law evolves, ensuring policies reflect both climate priorities and housing market realities that benefit Members, homebuyers, sellers, landlords, tenants, and businesses.