Upgrade Your Attic Insulation and Reap the Rewards
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BC Energy Step Code: Achieving Energy Efficiency in new Construction buildings in British Columbia.
Choose Green Canada Energy Advisors for Expert Guidance and Support.
Green Canada Energy Advisors: Your Expert Partner in Meeting BC Energy Step Code Requirements
The BC Energy Step Code establishes five performance levels for energy efficiency in new construction buildings in British Columbia, Canada. Builders have the flexibility to choose a step that aligns with their project’s needs and desired level of energy performance.
To comply with the Energy Step Code, builders need to demonstrate that their building meets the requirements of the chosen step.
This is typically done through energy modeling and/or onsite testing to verify that the building meets the required energy efficiency targets.
The Energy Step Code sets specific requirements for the building envelope, including walls, roof, windows, and doors, as well as for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These requirements vary based on the building type and climate zone.While the BC Energy Step Code is voluntary standard, which means that builders can choose to follow it or not., .However, some local governments have made it a mandatory standard for new construction buildings. By following the Energy Step Code, builders not only contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability but may also become eligible for incentives or rebates from government programs and utilities.
BC Energy Step Code Update 2023
Update from the Building and Safety Standards Branch
BC Building Code changes coming May 1, 2023.The BSSB is happy to announce that the building code changes to enable 20% better energy efficiency and provide an opt-in Zero Carbon Step Code (formerly known as the Carbon Pollution Standard) were signed by the Minister of Housing.
The key highlights of the update are as follows:
- Effective from May 1, 2023, Code changes mandate new construction in BC to be 20% more energy efficient than the 2018 BC Building Code.
- The opt-in Zero Carbon Step Code becomes available for local governments to reference starting May 1, 2023.
- Read the amendment to the Building Act General Regulation online.
- Read a PDF convenience copy of the BC Building Code changes (for information only).
- The default option for Step 3 in Part 9 construction is the performance approach. However, local governments have the option to implement a prescriptive energy efficiency approach for Step 3 by passing a bylaw. This decision takes into account feedback from rural or remote communities desiring a prescriptive-based option while accommodating requests from other local governments aiming to retain the performance-based approach.
- In Part 9 buildings, GHG modelling will not include backup heat from wood stoves and decorative gas fireplaces. This decision is in response to feedback from communities facing frequent power outages.
BC municipalities may require up to three Step Code reports
- Pre-construction compliance report
- Mid-construction blower door airtightness test report
- As-built compliance report
The BC Energy Step Code empowers builders to reduce costs and create value by upgrading select components. It gives you the flexibility to choose how to meet the Step Code targets and strike the right balance between cost and customer value. As a home builder, you can take advantage of rebates that help lower the expenses associated with meeting the new BC Energy Step Code.
Green Canada Energy Advisors: Your Partner in BC Energy Step Code Compliance
Green Canada Energy Advisors is dedicated to supporting builders throughout the entire BC Energy Step Code process. With our expertise and comprehensive services, we provide the necessary support and resources to ensure a smooth and successful compliance journey.
Our team of professionals is well-versed in energy modeling, testing, and compliance documentation, helping builders navigate the complexities of the code and meet its requirements. We offer tailored solutions to optimize energy performance, identify energysaving opportunities, and develop strategies to achieve the desired step level. Whether you need assistance with energy modeling to determine the most effective measures or guidance in conducting on-site testing to verify compliance, our experts are here to help.
We understand the importance of compliance documentation and provide thorough guidance to ensure builders meet the necessary reporting and documentation requirements.
Trust Green Canada Energy Advisors as your reliable partner throughout the BC Energy Step Code process, and together, we will achieve energy efficiency excellence and create a sustainable built environment.
Take the First Step Towards Energy Efficiency Today!
Ready to unlock the benefits of energy efficiency and sustainable building practices? Contact Green Canada Energy Advisors to get started on your journey towards compliance with the BC Energy Step Code. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the process, providing valuable insights, support, and resources.
Together, we can create a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly future. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a positive impact.
Request a Call Back.
FAQs about the BC Energy Step Code
The BC Energy Step Code is designed to improve energy efficiency in new construction buildings and promote sustainable building practices.
The BC Energy Step Code establishes performance levels for energy efficiency, allowing builders to choose a step that aligns with their project’s needs and desired energy performance.
Compliance with the BC Energy Step Code is voluntary, although some local governments have adopted it as a mandatory standard for new construction buildings.
Complying with the BC Energy Step Code offers benefits such as long-term energy savings, improved comfort in buildings, and reduced environmental impact.
Green Canada Energy Advisors provides support and resources, including assistance with energy modeling, testing, and compliance documentation, to help builders navigate the code and meet its requirements.
Yes, builders may be eligible for rebates or incentives from government programs and utilities to help offset the costs of meeting the BC Energy Step Code requirements.
Builders may be required to submit pre-construction compliance reports, mid-construction blower door airtightness test reports, and as-built compliance reports.
Yes, the requirements of the BC Energy Step Code are tailored to specific building types and climate zones to ensure effective energy efficiency measures
The BC Energy Step Code changes will come into effect on May 1, 2023, and builders must meet the new energy efficiency requirements by that date.
What Our Customers Say
victor da silva
2023-09-02
Sara was great , explained everything in great detail.
amir khajezadeh
2023-09-02
I’ve had a great experience with this company for doing the energy audit in my house in Burlington.
Highly recommended!
jena k siva
2023-09-02
Green Canada Home Advisor! Afshin and his Team are very well organized and professional. Extremely knowledgeable in their field. I was very satisfied with their professional work and referred more than 10 of my close friends and yet growing amongst them. Highly recommended!
Nadereh Haghighi
2023-09-02
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Shadi at Green Canada for her invaluable assistance in deepening my understanding of climate change and our collective responsibility to embrace environmentally-conscious practices in order to preserve our beloved planet Earth. Shadi's unwavering dedication to increasing public awareness and fostering a practical learning environment within the training courses of GREEN CANADA was truly remarkable. Her passion and commitment serve as an inspiration to all those seeking to make a positive difference.
Linda Lomax
2023-08-31
Excellent visit from Sara, our assigned energy auditor. She arrived on time and was very thorough and quick! No surprises. I appreciated her expertise and explanations of her readings and measurements. Thanks for making this easy to the home owner.
Wamae Gichuru
2023-08-30
Very knowledgeable and friendly.
Mary Ann Santiago
2023-08-29
Had a good experience with the agent. She is very professional and knowledgeable.
Ralph Martone
2023-08-28
Very friendly and informative
Very clean and polite.
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