scope:

Preface

The National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2020 (NECB), together with the National Building Code of Canada 2020 (NBC), the National Plumbing Code of Canada 2020 (NPC) and the National Fire Code of Canada 2020 (NFC), has been developed by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) as an objective-based national model code that can be adopted by provincial and territorial governments.

In Canada, provincial and territorial governments have the authority to enact legislation that regulates building design and construction within their jurisdictions. This may involve the adoption of the NECB without change or with modifications to suit local needs, and the enactment of other laws and regulations regarding building design and construction, including requirements for professional involvement.

The NECB is a model code in the sense that it helps promote consistency among provincial and territorial energy codes for buildings. Persons involved in the design or construction of a building should consult the provincial or territorial jurisdiction concerned to find out which energy code is applicable.

This edition of the NECB succeeds the 2017 edition.

The development of the NECB 2020 has been supported by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Natural Resources Canada and other stakeholders. The NECB 2020 will help to improve the energy efficiency of new buildings and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to long-term benefits for both Canada's economy and the environment.