Alberta-based Salvation Army refuses advice from consultants and builds a solar-powered, net-zero-ready 175 bed complex—will save $6 million

The Salvation Army wanted to build a net-zero 175-unit supportive housing complex in Edmonton, Alberta, but the consultants told them it was too expensive. Determined, Salvation Army architect Michaela Jones redesigned the project as a net-zero-ready building just before awarding tenders for regular construction.

“We did a redesign. Just as we were going out to tender,” says Jones.

What happened next surprised her.

“The tender amounts came in within a percentage of our original estimate, and that is with ground source heating, solar panels, and all of our building envelope upgrades.”

The project will save Sally Anne $240,000 per year on utilities and pay for itself in just four years.

“This project is a precedent for the Salvation Army. So we’ve done it, now we can do it again,” says Jones.

This is indeed a model for anyone building mid-sized apartments, offices or institutional buildings.