The BC Energy Step Code is a provincial standard that aims to create healthier, more energy-efficient and comfortable new buildings. It does so by establishing measurable performance-based energy-­efficiency requirements for new construction.

Since July 1, 2018, building permit applications for new construction have been required to show compliance with the BC Energy Step Code. Updated minimum requirements will be effective February 28, 2021. The following table outlines the District of West Vancouver’s BC Energy Step Code requirements.

*Compliance with the Step Code will require the input of an Energy Advisor at various stages of the project, including design, construction and building completion. Building Permit applications must include a performance modelling report along with construction details that show how the proposed house will comply with the BC Energy Step Code and the low carbon energy system pathway, if applicable.

**Low Carbon Energy System means a mechanical system providing all thermal conditioning and all domestic hot water heating for a building primarily from low-carbon energy sources with the following characteristics:

(a) system seasonal average co-efficient of performance greater than two;

(b) modelled Greenhouse Gas Intensity of no more than 3 kg CO2e/m2/yr; and

(c) any natural gas fired peak demand heating equipment is appropriately sized to augment the primary low carbon system under peak demand conditions.