Colwood Council has adopted the BC Zero Carbon Step Code

On January 22, 2024, Colwood Council adopted the Zero Carbon Step Code Emissions Level 4 (EL-4) with the following schedule for implementation. Building Permits applied for on or after these dates are subject to that requirement.

  • March 4, 2024 - Part 9 Buildings
  • July 1, 2024 - Part 3 Residential Buildings 6 storeys or fewer
  • November 1, 2024 - Part 3 Buildings

Learn more about the BC Energy Step Code at www.energystepcode.ca.

Why reduce building emissions?

Existing buildings contribute substantially to greenhouse gas emissions in BC. In the City of Colwood Climate foundations report, residential buildings alone accounted for 16,057 tonnes of C02 in 2018. 

The most impactful reductions to emissions in new construction can be made by converting home heating and hot water systems to electric. Zero Carbon Step EL-4 means that these systems are required to be electric.

At the same time, the City is developing a plan to support residents reducing emissions in existing homes. This approach will also be guided by a retrofit code being developed now by the Province.

The Province of BC's goal is that all new buildings be net-zero energy-ready by 2032

Through the BC Energy Step Code, the Province has set performance requirements to increase the energy-efficiency of newly constructed buildings.

In addition to soon becoming a requirement of the BC Building Code, Step Code goals align with Colwood's commitment to reducing energy use and emissions while making our seaside community more resilient to the impacts of a changing climate. More energy efficient buildings also have the potential to significantly reduce homeowner energy costs over time.

How-to process guides for Step Code

BC Energy Compliance Reports - what they are, who they are for and how they can be used
Compliance tools for Part 9 buildings | Energy Step Code
Compliance tools for Part 3 buildings | Energy Step Code

Working with the building community

The City of Colwood began Step Code consultation with builders in 2020. The process was put on pause at the outset of the pandemic.

The City re-engaged the building community in 2021 to provide an opportunity to comment on potential implementation of the BC Energy Step Code in Colwood.