BC Energy Step Code

What is the Step Code?

The Step Code is a new provincial standard that provides an incremental and consistent approach to achieve energy efficient construction. Through performance modeling and on-site testing, buildings constructed to the Step Code standard will exceed the energy performance requirements of the base BC Building Code.

The Step Code provides local government and industry with a clear framework to make progress towards the provincial goal that all new construction in BC is built “net-zero energy ready” by 2032. The Province defines a net-zero energy ready building as one that has been designed and built to a level of performance, such that it could (with additional measures) generate enough onsite energy to meet its own energy needs. It’s expected that net-zero energy ready buildings will be required by the BC Building Code by 2032.

Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation

The Township submitted a BC Energy Step Code Notice of Consultation  to the Province on November 7, 2017. Next steps in developing an adoption strategy include engaging the development and construction community, beginning early 2018.

Past Engagement Opportunities

• December 1, 2016: ENERGY STAR for New Homes Builder Workshop
• March 31, 2017: ENERGY STAR for New Homes Builder Workshop
• February 6, 2018: BC Energy Step Code Industry Workshop
• April 12, 2018: BC Energy Step Code Industry Workshop #2

BC Energy Step Code Presentations and Webinars

For a comprehensive list of events, training opportunities, and past recordings, visit BC Energy Step Code Presentations & Webinars .

For more information, contact the Township’s Community Development Division at 604-533-6018 or cdinfo@tol.ca.