CMHC MLI Select Energy Assessment Services for Multi-Unit Residential Buildings

Introduction: Maximizing Financing Advantages Through Energy Performance

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) MLI Select program provides a transformative financing opportunity for multi-unit residential property owners and developers across Canada. By incentivizing improvements in energy efficiency, accessibility, and affordability, the program offers enhanced loan terms for qualifying projects.

Under the energy efficiency stream, achieving higher performance thresholds can significantly improve loan-to-value ratios, extend amortization periods, and reduce mortgage loan insurance premiums. A professionally conducted energy assessment is essential to meet CMHC’s technical requirements and maximize point allocation.

EnerSolution Inc. delivers compliant, engineering-based energy assessments and performance modeling services that align with CMHC MLI Select scoring criteria.

Understanding the CMHC MLI Select Energy Stream

The MLI Select program awards points based on measurable performance improvements. Within the energy efficiency category, projects can qualify by demonstrating reduced energy consumption relative to baseline performance standards.

Key Energy Performance Objectives:

• Minimum percentage reduction in total energy consumption intensity (TEUI)

• Greenhouse gas emission reduction targets

• Compliance with National Energy Code benchmarks

• Integration of high-efficiency mechanical systems

• Building envelope performance improvements

Higher energy performance results in stronger financing incentives under CMHC underwriting guidelines.

EnerSolution’s MLI Select Energy Assessment Framework

EnerSolution provides structured technical support for both new construction and existing building retrofits.

Step 1: Baseline Energy Modeling

For new construction or major retrofit projects, we perform:

• Whole-building energy modeling using approved simulation software

• TEUI benchmarking against reference buildings

• Greenhouse gas emissions modeling

• Mechanical system efficiency analysis

• Envelope performance verification

For existing buildings, we conduct detailed energy consumption analysis using utility data and on-site inspection findings.

Step 2: Upgrade Strategy & Performance Optimization

Based on modeling results, we develop a structured improvement plan including:

• HVAC system optimization (heat pumps, high-efficiency boilers, VRF systems)

• Domestic hot water efficiency upgrades

• Advanced building automation systems

• High-performance insulation and glazing solutions

• Renewable energy integration (solar PV systems)

Each recommendation includes projected energy savings percentages aligned with CMHC scoring tiers.

Step 3: Documentation & Compliance Support

EnerSolution prepares comprehensive technical documentation required for MLI Select submission:

• Energy modeling reports and assumptions

• Performance comparison to baseline standards

• TEUI and emissions reduction calculations

• Professional certification and validation documentation

• Coordination with lenders and project consultants

Our objective is to ensure accurate scoring and reduce underwriting risk.

Eligible Property Types

EnerSolution supports MLI Select energy assessments for:

• Purpose-built rental apartment buildings

• Mixed-use residential developments

• Student housing properties

• Affordable housing projects

• Seniors’ housing facilities

Our assessments are customized based on building size, occupancy profile, and development stage.

Financial Benefits of Higher Energy Scoring

Projects achieving stronger energy performance may qualify for:

• Increased loan-to-value ratios

• Extended amortization periods (up to 50 years in qualifying cases)

• Reduced mortgage loan insurance premiums

• Improved long-term operating cost projections

Energy efficiency not only enhances financing terms but also improves asset valuation and investor attractiveness.

Alignment with ESG & Decarbonization Goals

Participation in the CMHC MLI Select energy stream supports:

• Corporate ESG reporting objectives

• Institutional investor sustainability benchmarks

• Long-term decarbonization strategies

• Reduced tenant utility costs and improved comfort

A defensible, professionally prepared energy assessment strengthens both financing approval and sustainability positioning.

The EnerSolution Advantage

Partnering with EnerSolution Inc. ensures:

• Certified and technically qualified energy advisors

• Advanced whole-building energy modeling capability

• Deep understanding of CMHC MLI Select criteria

• Structured documentation for underwriting review

• Integrated support with project engineers and lenders

Our approach is precision-focused, financially aligned, and fully compliant with CMHC energy performance standards.

Implementation Timeline

A typical CMHC MLI Select energy assessment follows this structured sequence:

1. Initial project consultation and data collection

2. Baseline energy modeling and benchmarking

3. Performance optimization strategy development

4. Preparation of technical documentation package

5. Coordination with lenders and CMHC submission

Timelines vary based on project complexity and design stage.

Conclusion: Strengthen Your MLI Select Financing Position

The CMHC MLI Select program presents a strategic opportunity for multi-unit residential developers to secure enhanced financing by prioritizing energy performance.

EnerSolution Inc. delivers technically rigorous energy assessments and modeling services designed to maximize MLI Select scoring, reduce underwriting risk, and improve long-term building performance outcomes.

Call to Action

Planning a multi-unit residential project or refinancing under CMHC MLI Select?

Contact EnerSolution Inc. today to initiate your professional energy assessment and secure optimized financing advantages through structured performance modeling.