The BC Energy Step Code is a building standard. It’s designed to help government and industry create a future in which all new construction in B.C. is net-zero energy-ready by 2032.

A net-zero energy-ready building has been designed and built to a level of performance such that it could, with the addition of solar panels or other renewable energy technologies, achieve net-zero energy performance. High-performance buildings will be vital in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping reach our climate targets.

The regulation sets performance targets for new construction and groups them into “steps” that apply across various building types and regions of the province. The Lower Steps are straightforward to meet; the Upper Steps are more ambitious.

Step Code level 3, or a 30% improvement over the national building code, is currently required for ALL new residential homes built in BC.

To demonstrate compliance with the BC Energy Step Code, a builder must prove to local building officials that the building meets or exceeds the performance requirements set out in each step. These requirements cover building envelope, airtightness, and equipment and systems.

Occupant Benefits

Buildings built to higher energy-efficiency standards benefit those who live, work, and learn within them. Occupants often prefer these buildings as they:

• Improve comfort by better managing temperature

• Improve health by better managing fresh air throughout the building

• Reduce noise through better insulation and airtightness

• Require less energy, helping occupants lower their energy bills

• Are more durable

As a certified Energy Advisor, I provide BC Step Code services, which include pre-built reports for building permits, mid-construction and final occupancy air tightness leakage testing and final home occupancy reports.

To learn more about the BC Energy Step Code, visit energystepcode.ca