BC's Building Transition: A Comprehensive Low-Carbon Strategy.pdf

The Pembina Institute advocates for ambitious carbon reduction targets for buildings in British Columbia (B.C.), aiming for a 50% to 60% decrease in carbon pollution from buildings by 2030, with a near-zero emissions goal by 2050. They propose an annual investment of up to $1 billion, creating sustainable jobs and driving GDP growth.

Key Recommendations:

1. Low-Carbon Construction Strategy:
- Proactive industry vision: Most builders can achieve net-zero energy ready buildings by 2025.
- Regulatory backstop: Implement a net-zero building code by 2032, with interim steps based on the Energy Step Code.
- Low-carbon fuel selection incentives: Encourage new buildings to use low-carbon heating systems.
- Market transformation: Grow capacity for net-zero ready buildings through training, incentives, and financing.
- Performance measures: Implement commissioning, recommissioning, and energy use disclosure requirements.

2. Retrofitting Strategy:
- Public capital and financing mechanisms: Provide loans and grants for retrofits, addressing procurement barriers.
- Training and certification: Focus on HVAC contractors for residential retrofits.
- Equipment standards: Ensure high-performance alternatives replace old components.
- Regulatory framework: Combine labeling and code requirements for staged retrofits.

Overall Approach:

The Institute's submission includes 37 recommendations, emphasizing the integration of policies into a comprehensive low-carbon building strategy. They highlight the need for:

- A labor strategy to address skilled labor shortages.
- Significant public and private investments.
- Best practices from leading jurisdictions as guides.

This strategy aims to make B.C.'s homes and workplaces sustainable, affordable, and resilient in the face of climate change, while fostering economic growth and job creation.