BC Energy Step Code
Make your home more efficient with Shoreline Building Performance
The BC Energy Step Code is a performance-based building standard in British Columbia, Canada, that aims to improve energy efficiency in new construction. It sets out a series of steps or tiers, each representing a higher level of energy efficiency, that the proposed building plans must meet. Instead of prescribing specific building techniques or materials, the Step Code focuses on the overall energy performance requirements of a building, allowing builders to choose how to meet these targets.
There are five steps for residential buildings and four for commercial buildings. Step 1 requires only basic energy efficiency, while Step 5 (for residential buildings) demands net-zero energy-ready performance, meaning the building is so efficient that it could potentially produce as much energy as it consumes. Step 3 BC Energy Step Code is now the minimum requirement in British Columbia, with many municipalities choosing to require higher steps to encourage a gradual shift towards more energy-efficient building practices and a reduction in carbon emissions in the industry.
At Shoreline Building Performance, we realize that the BC Energy Step Code can be difficult to navigate. Whether you’re looking to construct new residential buildings or convert an already constructed building into an energy-efficient structure, our energy advisors can ensure a consistent approach that helps you meet local standards in a cost-effective, carbon conscious manner. With an industry leading 3-day turnaround, our team of experts will guide you through the process, so you can focus on what you do best – building energy efficient homes.
Step Code Features
The BC Energy Step Code recognizes and promotes the multiple benefits of energy-efficient homes. The BC Energy Step Code include:
Maintaining Health and Indoor Comfort
The BC Building Code policy ensures homes stay healthy and comfortable with ample fresh air. Homes that meet energy efficiency requirements effectively manage temperature and humidity in all seasons.
Climate Leadership
The policy assists local governments in leading climate change across British Columbia. Under the code, every new construction will meet BC Building Code performance targets.
Lowering Energy Bills
Using less energy better lowers energy bills compared to finding alternative energy sources. The step code highlights this and compels every new construction project to follow a performance-based approach.
We know the BC Energy Step Code inside and out.
Shoreline Building Performance is here to help you make sense of the BC Energy Step Code and make your future projects more sustainable and compliant with local energy-efficiency standards. Contact a friendly, knowledgeable advisor based at our head quarters in Nanaimo, BC, and work with our expert professionals for a stress-free experience.
Shoreline BP: The Building Industry's Partner
The Shoreline Building Performance team has years of experience with British Columbia builders, local government, and the BC Energy Step Code. No matter your challenges navigating the code, our team can explain it in simple terms and help you understand your options and energy-efficiency requirements.
Our team can highlight the benefits of the BC Building Code and help you find ways to save money while remaining compliant. Let us analyze construction plans to save you time and money by ensuring you meet compliance requirements before construction begins. By running multiple simulations, we can provide cost optimization not only for first costs but also for the life of the building.
Elevate Your Builds with BC Step Code Compliance
At Shoreline Building Performance, we provide essential services for builders and residents in British Columbia seeking compliance with the BC Energy Step Code. Our team of Registered Energy Advisors offers energy modeling, testing, and certifications to ensure your projects meet the stringent energy efficiency standards set by the Step Code. By following the Performance Pathways outlined in the BC Step Code, we help you reduce energy consumption for significant long-term savings and increased design flexibility. Our extensive experience allows us to collaborate closely with building teams and homeowners to ensure compliance with today’s regulations while preparing for future standards.
Tailored Solutions for Custom Designs
The Performance Pathways under the BC Step Code are particularly advantageous for projects featuring unique design elements or specific client preferences that might not fit traditional standards. For instance, a home with fewer windows than a standard model may require less insulation or a simpler mechanical system, yet still achieve superior energy performance. This approach allows builders to optimize costs by balancing initial construction expenses with long-term energy savings. The performance path is an opportunity to tailor energy efficiency strategies to specific project goals, offering a cost-effective way to exceed mandatory performance targets while enhancing sustainability and cutting costs in the long run.
Energy Modelling From The Design Stage Onward
An integrated approach incorporating energy modeling into the design phase of your construction projects provides a detailed understanding of how your building will perform under real-world conditions. This insight enables builders and designers to make informed decisions that meet both regulatory requirements and the unique needs of each project, ultimately leading to more sustainable and energy-efficient homes. For large-scale homebuilding projects, design-stage energy modeling can lead to a substantial reduction in your project’s long-term energy costs. Schedule an efficiency audit with our registered energy advisors today to explore your compliance options and elevate the performance of your next build.
