The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako is writing to the “BC minister responsible for housing” about the province’s Energy Step Code.
The Code says that within 15 years, all new homes and buildings are to produce as much energy as they consume to be a ‘net zero’ energy building. The idea is that the province makes it voluntary for now so it can be implemented in ‘steps.’
Chair of the District Bill Miller says the code will raise building costs and slow the rate of new developments. He says costs are different here in the north.
“The intention is right, but as is usually the case with legislation that the province brings forth on a provincial-wide scope; we get lumped in with Metro Van,” says Miller.
In the letter, it also expresses concerns that the Step Code and the associated construction and expertise costs could exceed the market value of buildings in the regional district.
Director Taylor Bchrach voted against writing the letter to the province. He says the code is a step in the right direction.
“The cost probably isn’t as great as people suggest it is. Certainly, there can be costs at the front end. Overall, we need to look at what the objective is…to build smarter buildings,” says Bachrach.
Miller says he would rather see a passive housing standard that looks to boost energy efficiency.