As British Columbia races toward its net-zero emissions target by 2030, the North Shore (from North Vancouver to Pemberton) is witnessing significant shifts in energy requirements. As of March 10, 2025, the Zero Carbon Step Code requires new buildings to meet at least EL-1, a baseline that tracks emissions through energy modeling or equipment declarations.
The province’s Zero Carbon Step Code, is driving a major shift in how we design and heat our homes, pushing builders and homeowners to embrace low-carbon solutions. Among the available technologies, heat pumps are emerging as a compelling option for their efficiency and environmental benefits. But are they truly the right fit for our region’s distinct climate? We’ve laid out the considerations for you.
Evolving Energy Requirements
The Zero Carbon Step Code marks a departure from traditional energy efficiency metrics, zeroing in on greenhouse gas reductions. Unlike older codes that focused solely on performance, this regulation demands a pivot away from fossil fuels toward electrification and renewables. For North Shore residents, this means rethinking reliance on natural gas furnaces which were once a staple in home heating. This is especially key in new constructions and deep retrofits.
Our region’s cool, damp winters and temperate summers create an ideal testing ground for heat pumps. Modern cold-climate heat pumps thrive even when temperatures dip below zero in places like Squamish or Whistler. Meanwhile, hybrid systems, which pair heat pumps with high-efficiency gas backups, offer a bridge for homes built to higher Step Code tiers, qualifying for incentives like those from FortisBC’s New Home Program.
Why Heat Pumps Stand Out
Heat pumps are more than just a trend – they’re a practical solution to meet decarbonization goals. Powered by BC Hydro’s largely renewable electricity grid, they deliver standout benefits:
- Carbon Reduction: No fossil fuels, no problem. Heat pumps align seamlessly with the Zero Carbon Step Code’s emissions targets.
- Unmatched Efficiency: By transferring heat rather than generating it, they can achieve efficiencies up to four times that of traditional systems.
- All-Season Versatility: Heat in winter, cool in summer = perfect for adapting to increasingly warm North Shore summers.
- Cost Savings: Rebates and interest free loan programs from government and utility programs make the switch more affordable than ever.
The Key to Success: Sizing It Right
A common mistake when adopting heat pump technology is improper sizing. A system that’s too big or too small can waste energy, spike costs, and wear out prematurely. That’s where the CSA F280-12 standard comes in, it’s a proven method for sizing heat pumps to match a home’s unique needs.
This calculation considers factors like insulation levels, window quality, local weather patterns, and even how occupants use the space. Whether through detailed room-by-room analysis or a broader block load approach, CSA F280-12 ensures your heat pump runs efficiently, lasts longer, and keeps your home comfortable year-round. Skipping this step risks short-cycling and subpar performance, both mistakes worth avoiding. Look out for our newsletter article about CSA F280-12 in the near future.
Transform Your Day to Day
For North Shore homeowners and builders, heat pumps aren’t just an option, they’re a smart investment in a sustainable future. They check all the boxes: compliance, efficiency, and comfort.
Ready to make a shift? Partner with an energy advisor or HVAC expert versed in CSA F280-12 to tailor a system to your home. With the right setup and available incentives, heat pumps can transform living on the North Shore or anywhere in BC. At Allester Energy Advising, we’re here to guide you through your projects with expert insight backed by a foundation in engineering. Reach out today, we’d love to help!
by Allen Rabi, Energy Advisor