RDH completed whole-building energy modelling to establish an energy performance target and assess net-zero potential. The modelling established a performance range of 117–153 kWh/m²/yr, with results dependent on lab ventilation assumptions.
With a performance target established, RDH used RETScreen, Natural Resources Canada’s clean energy management and analysis software, to model the solar photovoltaic (PV) system capacity needed to offset annual energy and carbon consumption.
Using RETScreen, RDH applied Whitehorse climate data (Climate Zone 7) to evaluate solar resource availability and system performance across multiple roof orientations, including the Polaris rooftop and adjacent campus buildings.
RDH assessed PV scenarios for Net Zero Energy, Net Zero Operational Carbon, and a 5% of annual energy consumption target, aligning with Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) Zero Carbon Building compliance pathways.
The analysis identified that achieving Net Zero Energy would require a large, distributed PV system across multiple buildings due to limited available roof area on the primary facility. In contrast, a smaller system could achieve Net Zero Operational Carbon, as exported electricity offsets grid emissions more effectively than direct on‑site consumption. The analysis also indicated that south‑facing arrays provided the highest annual energy yield, while steeper tilt angles improved PV performance in northern climates.
The modelling outcomes enabled direct comparison between building energy consumption and PV generation capacity for this project, supporting early‑stage feasibility assessment. The analysis indicated that Net Zero Operational Carbon was a more feasible pathway, particularly when paired with a high‑performance enclosure, efficient mechanical systems, and distributed PV infrastructure.
