BC ENERGY STEP CODE Changes Effective May 1, 2023

The Province has now amended the BC Building Code, and raised the base energy efficiency for new buildings by 20%. Based on these changes, for all applications received on or after May 1, 2023:

• All buildings regulated by Part 9 of the BC Building Code containing residential occupancies, as defined by the BC Building Code, shall be designed and constructed to meet the minimum performance requirements specified in Step 3 of the Energy Step Code.
• All buildings regulated by Part 3 of the BC Building Code containing residential, business and personal services, or mercantile occupancies, as defined by the BC Building Code, shall be designed and constructed to meet the minimum performance requirements specified in Step 2 of the Energy Step Code.

For more information regarding the BC Energy Step Code, go to: https://www.energystepcode.ca/

Resources for finding qualified Energy Advisors or Energy Modelers:

Better Homes BC Search Tool

CACEA Energy Advisor Database

CHBA Licensed Energy Advisors

NRC Service Organization Database

Have questions about these changes? Contact the Building Department at building@gibsons.ca.