VIDEO: Disagreement is building over how to build efficient homes

BC's Energy Step Code could change the way we build homes in BC. It aims to make our homes more energy efficient. But just as British Columbians prepare to take those first steps, there is disagreement. While the provincial government says the lower steps of the code will add less than 2% to the cost of a new home, local home builders peg that figure much higher. We spoke with the president of the Kelowna chapter of the Canadian Home Builders Association, Les Bellamy. We also spoke with Scott Hilder, an energy advisor from Total Home Solutions. Bellamy argues against making the new code mandatory and said there needs to be a greater focus on renovating older homes instead. Hilder, on the other hand, said we should do both.

One of the first things the Step Code would mandate is the involvement of a consultant who would actually measure the efficiency of a house, but there is a financial cost.

"We don't want to lock the next generation out of home ownership," warned Bellamy. He said builders and the public should be given a choice. "When you mandate things, you don't give the same opportunity for innovations, research and development."

Hilder argues that the Step Code will give people information so they don't just have to take a builder's word on whether a home will be energy efficient. "With this modelling and air leakage testing that you can do, now you have proof that you can show to the homeowner."

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs told KelownaNow the Energy Step Code Council will be welcoming representatives from the Central Okanagan CHBA at their December meeting. An email from the ministry said the purpose is to "...work together on finding cost-effective solutions that work for home builders in the Okanagan and across BC."