RDOS launches BC Step Code implementation consultation

News Article

The Province of BC has committed to taking incremental steps to increase energy-efficiency requirements in the BC Building Code to make new buildings net-zero energy ready by 2032. All new residential buildings must be 20% better than current building code by December 2022.

The BC Energy Step Code is currently an optional performance-based compliance path in the BC Building Code. The Energy Step Code does not specify how to construct a building, instead it identifies energy-efficiency targets that must be met and allows the designer/builder decide how to meet them. To comply with Energy Step Code, builders engage an energy advisor who uses modelling software and on-site testing to demonstrate that both the building design and construction meet the requirements of the Energy Step Code.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is engaging communities and industry professionals across the region in order to build knowledge and skills while minimizing the risk of non-compliance and the cost to consumers.

The RDOS is considering three options for implementation:

1)      Mandatory compliance with Energy Step Code (lower steps) and associated incentives before it becomes BC Building Code

2)      Voluntary Compliance with Energy Step Code with potential incentives before it becomes BC Building Code

3)      Wait for the Province to adopt through Building Code in December 2022.

A public engagement page has been launched on RDOS Regional Connections with details about BC Step Code implementation options, information for Energy Advisors and home owners, as well as an opportunity to participate in informative webinars and a survey for industry professionals (builders, developers, trades). 

“This is an opportunity for the public and industry professionals to let us know what their preference is for implementing BC Step Code requirements,” says RDOS Chair Karla Kozakevich. “It will help determine how the RDOS approaches building efficiency requirements across the region, whether it’s early compliance, voluntary, or in line with the Province.”

The RDOS encourages interested parties to follow the project for updates as more opportunities to provide input will be announced.

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Karla Kozakevich, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Contacts:

Jeremy Dresner
Senior Energy Analyst, RDOS
250-490-4380

Erick Thompson Andrea Rendall
RDOS Communications RDOS Communications
250-490-4211 250-490-4147
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