B.C. introduces new zero-carbon construction changes to building code

VICTORIA — The Government of British Columbia is now requiring 20 per cent more energy efficiency for most new buildings in the province as changes to the BC Building Code come into effect.

The new code was implemented on May 1 in an effort to put the province on track to meet its zero-carbon new construction by 2030 goal.

“These measures are essential changes to the BC Building Code that will help us meet our CleanBC commitments to make new buildings cleaner and more energy efficient,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing, in a news release.

The new requirements build on the BC Energy Step Code which was introduced in 2017. Local governments can use the code to push energy efficiency standards beyond those currently in the BC Building Code, according to the release.