BC Energy Step Code
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 Modellers:
- 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.
Related Bylaws:
One significant component of the Town’s Building Bylaw update is the implementation of the BC Energy Step Code, a provincial standard designed to help both local government and industry steadily move toward a future where all new buildings across BC are “net-zero energy-ready” by 2032.
On January 1, 2021, Step 1 of the BC Energy Step Code for all new Part 3 (large and complex) and Part 9 (houses and small) buildings was implemented within the Town of Gibsons. The SCRD and the District of Sechelt have also passed similar legislation.
Helpful Resources
- Basics on the BC Energy Step Code and its implementation on the Sunshine Coast
- www.energystepcode.ca/all-resources/ training courses and resources
- Energy Step Code resources and short videos
- CleanBC Better Homes New Construction Program
- FortisBC New Home Program
- Community Energy Association
- Certified Energy Advisors
Builders’ Webinar
On December 8, 2020, the local governments of the Sunshine Coast hosted a one-hour Zoom webinar to discuss the implementation of Step 1 of the BC Energy Step Code on January 1, 2021. Presenters included representatives from: the Town of Gibsons; BC Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation; Fortis BC; Community Energy Association; and a Certified Energy Advisor.
