British Columbia Building Code 2018 Emissions and Energy Efficiency Standards
The Province is proposing to raise base energy efficiency requirements for new buildings by 20%, equivalent to Step 3 for Part 9 Building and Step 2 for Part 3 buildings. These will take effect end of 2022.
Learn more
The BC Energy Step Code
The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB) is implementing the BC Energy Step Code (Step Code) through voluntary compliance as of January 1, 2021.
This means when you apply for a building permit in the RDKB electoral areas as of January 1, 2021, you can choose between:
- Step Code energy performance compliance pathway or
- Existing Building Code energy requirements.
What is BC Energy Step Code?
Step Code is a performance-based compliance path in the BC Building Code. It sets out energy and airtightness performance targets for new developments. Designers or builders decide how to meet these required targets.
Builders work with a certified energy advisor or a registered professional. They use energy modelling software and on-site testing to demonstrate that both the building design and the construction meet Step Code requirements.
BC has committed to taking incremental steps to increase energy-efficiency requirements in the BC Building Code to make all new buildings net zero energy ready by 2032.A net zero energy ready building is designed and built to a level of performance that could, by adding renewable energy technologies, achieve net zero energy performance.
Resources and References
RDKB Information Sheets:
The RDKB Build Energy Smart engagement site that provides the building industry with a central portal with information on education and training sessions, resources and guides as well as an online newsletter (if you register), Q&A and a discussion forum. https://jointheconversation.rdkb.com/buildenergysmart