View the new BC Energy Step Code Handbook
(published October 2019)
What is the Step Code?
The Step Code is a new provincial standard that provides an incremental and consistent approach to achieve energy efficient construction. Through performance modeling and on-site testing, buildings constructed to the Step Code standard will exceed the energy performance requirements of the base BC Building Code.
The Step Code provides local government and industry with a clear framework to make progress towards the provincial goal that all new construction in BC is built “net-zero energy ready” by 2032. The Province defines a net-zero energy ready building as one that has been designed and built to a level of performance, such that it could (with additional measures) generate enough onsite energy to meet its own energy needs. It’s expected that net-zero energy ready buildings will be required by the BC Building Code by 2032.
View the District of Lake Country Information Bulletin regarding Step 3 Implementation effective October 1, 2020.
Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation
The District submitted a BC Energy Step Code Notice of Consultation to the Province on June 7, 2018; and held a Step Code Industry Panel discussion on July 5, 2018 at Lake country Municipal Hall. Next steps in developing an adoption strategy include engaging the development and construction community, beginning Summer 2018. An online survey was launched in July 2018 to gather citizen and industry feedback on the following questions:
1. Why is the Step Code important to you or your business?
2. What should the District consider leading up to implementation of the Step Code?
3. How do you feel about the proposed Step Code implementation timeline?
Email your responses to the questions above to building@lakecountry.bc.ca.
Do you have questions about the BC Energy Step Code?
Get in touch with the District of Lake Country Building Department and provide your comments or ask questions about implementation of the BC Energy Step Code.
BC Energy Step Code Resources for Industry
For a comprehensive resource directory on the BC Energy Step Code, visit the Resources for Industry page from the Energy Step Code website.
For more information, contact the District’s Building Department at 250-766-6675 or building@lakecountry.bc.ca.
Download the BC Energy Step Code Strategy road map for Lake Country.
