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Why Consider a Depreciation Report & Electrical Planning Report Package from Us

Trusted Experts Collaborating on the Provision of Electrical Planning Reports

Our team, composed of qualified Reserve Fund Consultants along with our Electrical Engineering Partners, are proud to offer Depreciation Reports, Electrical Planning Reports, and EV Ready Plan package options. Our expertise ensures comprehensive, compliant, and cost-effective planning for your strata's future.

  • Building FoundationElectrical Planning Reports
  • UtilitiesEV Ready Plan

Comprehensive Guide to Electrical Planning Reports (EPRs) in British Columbia

An Electrical Planning Report (EPR) is a mandatory document required for strata corporations in British Columbia to assess their electrical infrastructure and plan for future energy needs. These reports have become a legal requirement to ensure that buildings meet the increasing demand for electrical capacity, driven in part by the rise in electric vehicles (EVs) and energy-efficient systems.

Key Components of an Electrical Planning Report

  1. Current Electrical Capacity and Usage
    • The EPR assesses the current electrical system, providing details on the existing capacity and any demands placed on the system. It includes information on essential systems such as heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting, as well as any existing EV charging infrastructure.
  2. Peak Electrical Demand and Spare Capacity
    • The report analyzes the peak demand placed on the system and evaluates the amount of spare capacity available to meet future requirements.
  3. Electrification Potential
    • For non-electrified systems (such as gas or oil-powered heating), the EPR estimates the electrical capacity needed to convert these systems to electricity. This is part of a broader push towards cleaner energy solutions in the province under the CleanBC initiative.
  4. Future Electrical Demand Projections
    • o The report projects future demands, including potential increases in EV charging needs and future installations of electrified systems like heat pumps. It also recommends upgrades and modifications to enhance capacity.
  5. Efficiency and Demand Reduction Measures
    • o The EPR offers recommendations on how the strata corporation can reduce demand through efficiency upgrades. These steps might include better energy management, lighting retrofits, or improved HVAC systems.

FAQ's

All strata corporations with 5 or more strata lots are required to obtain an EPR under Section 94.1 of the Strata Property Act. This applies to a wide range of properties, including condos, townhouses, bare land stratas, and commercial strata corporations. The requirement also extends to phased developments, where multiple reports may be needed as each new phase is added.

The deadline for completing an EPR varies by region:

  • December 31, 2026: Strata corporations in the Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley, and Capital Regional Districtsmust complete their reports by this date.
  • December 31, 2028: Strata corporations in all other areas of BC must complete their reports by this date​

New strata corporations that register their strata plans after December 31, 2023, have 5 years from the date of registration to submit their reports.

The British Columbia Building Code distinguishes between simple buildings (Part 9) and complex buildings (Part 3). The qualification of the professional preparing the EPR depends on this classification:

  • Part 9 buildings: These reports can be prepared by a licensed electrician, an applied science technologist, or an electrical engineer.
  • Part 3 buildings: Only an electrical engineer or applied science technologist can prepare the report.

Aside from meeting mandatory BC legislated requirements, the EPR is crucial for strata corporations to plan future electrical upgrades and ensure compliance with evolving energy standards. The CleanBC program, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote electrification, heavily influences this requirement. Failure to meet the deadlines or comply with the EPR standards could result in penalties or complications in future development projects.

  • Improved safety and efficiency: Regular assessments help ensure that the building’s electrical systems are up to date and functioning efficiently.
  • Future-proofing: By planning for future energy needs, such as increased EV charging capacity, strata corporations can avoid costly retrofits and system overloads down the line.
  • Environmental responsibility: The report supports CleanBC’s environmental goals by promoting the shift to cleaner energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The BC EV Ready Plan is a provincial initiative that helps strata corporations and multi-unit residential buildings prepare for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

The BC Hydro EV Ready Plan Rebate is part of the CleanBC initiative, designed to help strata corporations and multi-unit residential buildings prepare for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Eligible properties can receive rebates of up to $3,000 for creating an EV Ready Plan, which assesses the building’s electrical capacity and outlines steps for EV charging implementation. Additionally, there is an EV Ready Infrastructure rebate of up to $600 per parking space, and a maximum of $14,000 in rebates for installing Level 2 networked chargers

To begin the EPR process, strata corporations must hire a qualified professional, such as an electrical engineer or technologist, depending on the building’s complexity. It's essential to start early, especially for strata corporations nearing the 2026 or 2028 deadlines, to avoid potential delays.

NLD Consulting provides these services in conjunction with our Electrical Engineering Partners when engaged along with our Depreciation Report services. We can offer a great value to strata corporations by offering these packaged services, in terms of both cost and logistical efficiency.

In summary, the EPR plays a critical role in ensuring that BC's strata properties are prepared for future energy demands, remain compliant with regulations, and contribute to a sustainable future.

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