British Columbia has long been considered a leader in building efficiency and decarbonization policy through the development of the B.C. Energy Step Code and more recently with the Zero Carbon Step Code. B.C.’s building code has served as an example for other jurisdictions looking to improve building quality while lowering emissions. But we have found through a recent industry survey and targeted interviews that this leadership hasn’t fully extended to existing buildings.
Healthy Buildings in a Changing Climate
Buildings constructed for yesterday’s climate are no longer able to handle today’s extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, flooding, and wildfire smoke. Deep retrofits, which include upgrades to ventilation, heating, cooling systems, and building envelopes (including windows), can significantly enhance occupant health and resilience. Investing in these upgrades now is crucial to safeguard our communities.
Getting To Net-Zero By 2050
The Pembina Institute has used the Energy Policy Simulator to develop an illustrative policy scenario, “Path to 2050,” to show one possible pathway to achieving net-zero in Canada. Net-zero means cutting greenhouse gas emissions to as close to zero as possible, with any remaining emissions re-absorbed either by natural means or technological solutions.
BC Building Code Changes Coming May 01, 2023
These building code changes enable 20% better energy efficiency and provide an opt-in Zero Carbon Step Code (formerly known as the Carbon Pollution Standard), and were signed by the Minister of Housing last week.