Zero Carbon Step Code

The BC Zero Carbon Step Code sets emission reduction targets for new buildings. Learn about how it works, the options it provides and guidance for local governments.

About the Zero Carbon Step Code

Like the BC Energy Step Code, the Zero Carbon Step Code is a flexible, predictable plan to improve new buildings over time. It complements the BC Energy Step Code by reducing emissions while improving energy efficiency. Together, they make buildings that are:

• Cleaner
• More energy efficient
• More affordable to operate

The Zero Carbon Step Code was introduced in May 2023. It provides several options to reduce the amount of operational carbon emissions from a building by requiring lower emissions from space and water heating systems.

Carbon performance steps

The Zero Carbon Step Code is based on different, measurable Steps. In general terms, these Carbon Steps can be referred to as:

• Measure-only (EL-1)
• Moderate Carbon Performance (EL-2)
• Strong Carbon Performance (EL-3)
• Zero Carbon Performance (EL-4)

Starting March 10, 2025, the Province will require most new buildings to meet or exceed EL-1. Existing users of the Part 3 or Part 9 compliance checklists already meet EL-1 as the checklists include modelled emissions.

Local governments and other authorities with jurisdiction can incentivize or require builders to meet any Step of the Zero Carbon Step Code. There are different compliance pathways for Part 9 and Part 3 buildings.

 Options for simple (Part 9) buildings

Builders and developers may follow a prescriptive or performance approach for buildings like:

• Single-family homes
• Rowhomes
• Small apartment buildings

Prescriptive path 

The prescriptive path requires builders to decarbonize energy-intensive appliances like:

• Space heating
• Water heating
• Cooking equipment

The higher the Carbon Step, the more decarbonized equipment will have to be installed.

Performance path

The performance path sets overall greenhouse gas emission targets for each Carbon Step. Builders may choose from different metrics optimized for small, medium and large homes.

Most builders will need to decarbonize domestic heat, hot water, or both depending on local requirements. However, builders can work with Energy Advisors to determine if other combustion equipment can be included such as gas fireplaces, cooktops and clothes dryers.

Option for complex (Part 3) buildings

Different technical requirements apply to complex (Part 3) buildings such as:

• Large residential buildings
• Offices
• Retail buildings
• Hotels and motels

The energy model for each building may be used to include carbon intensity calculations. Included in this calculation are:

• Space heating
• Cooling
• Ventilation
• Domestic hot water
• Cooking appliances
• Combustion fireplaces

Part 3 buildings vary in size, shape and purpose and there are different performance targets for different building types.  There is no prescriptive compliance path for Part 3 buildings. For detailed information, please refer to the BC Building Code.

Local government guidance

The Energy Step Code council has updated the Local Government Best Practices Guide (PDF, 6MB) to include Zero Carbon Step Code information.

• Explore other resources for local governments