On Dec. 20, 2013, new energy efficiency requirements for the BC Building Code will come into effect.

Developers will have a choice of energy efficiency standards for complex buildings (Part 3). This includes large residential, industrial, commercial and institutional buildings. It does not include houses or small buildings.

Developers can choose to use either the 2011 National Energy Code for Buildings or ASHRAE 90.1 (2010), creating greater flexibility for the construction industry:

• Adoption of the National Energy Code for Buildings harmonizes B.C. with the national code development system and addresses the climatic and construction practices in the province.
• ASHRAE is an older, well-respected standard. Using ASHRAE in B.C. will require the use of Canadian climate data and ventilation rates from the BC Building Code.

On average, each standard can increase energy savings up to 15 per cent over the previous requirements, depending on the type of building. Both standards are also associated with improved comfort for building residents.

The B.C. government adopted the new energy efficiency requirements in April 2013.

Learn More:

Technical bulletin on new energy efficiency requirements: http://www.housing.gov.bc.ca/pub/bulletins/B13-05%20New%20Energy%20Requirements.pdf

Media Contact:

Sandra Steilo
Media Relations
Ministry of Natural Gas Development and Responsible for Housing
250 952-0617