scope:

Preface

The National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2011, together with the National Building Code of Canada 2010, the National Plumbing Code of Canada 2010 and the National Fire Code of Canada 2010, is an objective-based National Model Code that can be adopted by provincial and territorial governments. The National Model Codes are developed by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC).

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

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

This edition of the NECB succeeds the 1997 edition of the Model National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings.

The development of the NECB 2011 has been a collaborative effort involving the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and other stakeholders. Through the Government of Canada's ecoENERGY initiatives, NRCan's contribution will improve the energy efficiency of new buildings and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The NECB 2011 will contribute to long-term benefits for both Canada's economy and the environment.