BC Energy and Zero Carbon Step Codes
The Province has included the BC Energy Step Code and the BC Zero Carbon Step Code in the BC Building Code as opt-in tools for Local Governments to advance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in their communities ahead of the Provincial timeline for implementation.
On December 11, 2023, Council adopted amendments to the Building Bylaw that implement a two option framework for Part 9 and Part 3 buildings beginning January 1, 2025.
Further information on the BC Energy Step Code and Zero Carbon Step Code can be found on the Province's website.
New Westminster's Step Code Timeline
The City of New Westminster has developed a timeline to reach the highest steps of both the BC Energy Step Code and the Zero Carbon Step Code.
The timeline is in alignment with the required action needed to meet the City's Climate Emergency Declaration targets for emission reductions outlined in the Community Energy and Emissions Plan 2050.
| Building Type | Effective May 1, 2023 | Effective Jan 1, 2024 | Effective Jan 1, 2025 | Effective Jan 1, 2027 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part 9 Residential | Single or Two Family Dwellings | Step 3 | Step 5 EL-1 Measure or Step 3 EL-4 Zero Carbon Ready | Step 5 EL-2 Moderate Carbon or Step 4 EL-4 Zero Carbon Ready | Step 5 EL-4 Zero Carbon Ready |
| Laneway and Carriage Dwellings | |||||
| Townhomes and Apartment Buildings up to three stories | |||||
| Part 3 Multi-Family Residential | Group C Residential Occupancies 6 stories or less and combustible construction | Step 3 | Step 3 EL-1 Measure | Step 4 EL-1 Measure or Step 3 EL-4 Zero Carbon Ready | Step 4 EL-4 Zero Carbon Ready |
| Group C Residential Occupancies over 6 stories or non-construction | |||||
| Hotels/Motels | |||||
| Part 3 Commercial | Group D Offices (Business and Personal Services) | Step 2 | Step 2 EL-1 Measure | Step 3 EL-1 Measure or Step 2 EL-4 Zero Carbon Ready | Step 3 EL-4 Zero Carbon Ready |
| Other Group D and Group E (Mercantile) Occupancies |
Climate Ready New Homes Bulletin
The Climate Ready New Homes bulletin outlines expectations that help streamline building permit submissions, reviews, and approvals. It came into effect on February 1, 2026.
Electric Vehicle Ready Requirements
New Westminster requires new buildings to be built Electric Vehicle (EV) Ready. Details about these requirements can be found on our Electric Vehicles webpage.
Note: As stated on the Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Requirements webpage, EV ready parking spots may use an Electric Vehicle Energy Management System (EVEMS) to manage electrical loads. The EVEMS must be capable of supplying a minimum performance level of 12 kWh average per EV charger over an 8-hour overnight period. This information and more can be found on the EV Charging Infrastructure Requirements webpage.
If you have questions or need more information please contact Climate Action at climateaction@newwestcity.ca
Energy Save New West
Energy Save New West is a community energy program designed to improve the energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions of homes and businesses in New Westminster. The below sections highlight Energy Save New West services and programs for new homes.
High Performance New Homes Program
Part 9 home builders are encouraged to join ESNW's High Performance New Homes program, free and widely available to New West builders. Take advantage of program resources including:
- personalized energy coaching,
- technical guidance,
- a limited number of free pre-construction energy evaluations and free mid-construction blower door tests, and
- help with navigating available rebate programs.
Builder and Designer Breakfasts
Energy Save New West hosts educational sessions a couple times each year, with presentations from leaders in the construction industry and updates from the City's Climate Action and Building teams. Past presentation recordings are on ESNW's News webpage.