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New energy efficiency requirements for the BC Building Code
December 6, 2013 - On December 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), which include large residential, industrial, commercial and institutional buildings, says the province, noting this does not include houses or small buildings.
December 7, 2013 By Anthony Capkun
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, says the government.
• ASHRAE is an older, well-respected standard, says the province, but using it 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% over the previous requirements, says the government, depending on the type of building. Both standards are also associated with improved comfort for building residents. The government adopted the new energy efficiency requirements in April 2013.
To learn more, download the Technical Bulletin on new energy efficiency requirements (below Social Sharing).
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