In Nanaimo, I think up to now, it has been easier supporting programs and policies that support typical buildings with renewable energy. This was because of concerns that the typical developer was not interested in taking advantage of any program promoting highly energy efficient building. The sophistication in using energy modelling in the design of the project was not there typically and it was always easier to look at energy efficient components insolation.
That is changing however, with more developers coming from other communities in the lower mainland. This is somewhat raising the bar for what is expected in a project. But this is usually still focused on higher end commercial / mixed residential projects (Proposed downtown Hilton comes to mind).
Regional workshops and green building tours showcasing Passiv Hause construction and other green building projects is changing attitudes with the larger construction companies and development consultants, which will influence the local developers over time.
