ENERGY STEP CODE UPDATE

RECOMMENDATION:

THAT the October 28, 2019 report from the Building Official titled “Energy Step Code Update” be received for information.

CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER’S COMMENTS:

I concur with the recommendation.

DIRECTOR OF PROTECTIVE SERVICE’S COMMENTS:

I concur with the recommendation.

PURPOSE OF REPORT:

To update the Committee of the Whole regarding the next steps required for consultation with the stakeholders and the Energy Step Code.

BACKGROUND DISCUSSION:

In April 2017 the Provincial Government introduced an initiative that provides a step approach to achieving more energy-efficient buildings that go beyond the requirements of the base BC Building Code.

In May of 2019 Council gave direction to staff to provide further information including costs and implications for both the Town and industry should the Step Code be adopted. Staff was also instructed to begin a consultation process toward adopting Step Code 3 by June 2020.

On October 25, 2019, Staff submitted the attached Notice of Consultation with the Province. This is the first step required to begin the initial consultation process with all the stakeholders.

A public workshop will be held on November 26, with invitations sent to industry and the public. The intention is to provide some education and background on the Energy Step Code, as well as receive feedback from attendees to be followed up in a report in early 2020.

As part of the procedure in notifying the Province, no Bylaw can be implemented within the first 6 months after the document is submitted. The submittal date of October 25, 2019 will allow for an implementation date of June 2020 should Council wish to proceed.