The transition to heat pumps in three and four-story residential units, or low-rise multi-unit residential units (MURBs), has been referred to as the “last frontier of decarbonizing the built environment” in urban centres. The transition to heat pumps in MURBs may on its face appear simple, given accelerating installation rates in single family homes, yet in practice it is a complex and multifaceted challenge.

In this discussion guide, we will explore ways to frame the challenge of transitioning to heat pumps in low-rise MURBS, map the key actors who should be involved in solving the problem, provide an inventory of known obstacles, outline the guiding questions for the dialogue, provide a glossary of terms, and link to other relevant resources on the topic.