vcc.ca
DRFT 2206: Building Codes, Energy, and Net-Zero Construction
Effective date
September 2027
Department
Drafting
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
Students are introduced to the integration of building codes, energy efficiency standards, and net-zero construction principles within a BIM-enabled workflow. Students analyze current codes and standards, evaluate energy performance strategies, and apply sustainable design principles to support low-carbon and net-zero building outcomes. AI-supported tools will be used to interpret codes, simulate energy performance, and enhance decision-making in design coordination.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
2nd Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
DRFT 2103 or DRFT 1111 or DRFT 1130 or DRFT 1140 or DRFT 1213.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Interpret relevant building codes, energy codes, and sustainability standards applicable to building design and construction.
- Analyze how codes and energy requirements influence architectural, structural, and MEP design decisions.
- Evaluate net-zero construction strategies including envelope performance, passive design, and renewable energy integration.
- Apply BIM tools and AI-assisted workflows to assess compliance with energy and code requirements.
- Develop coordinated BIM-based design solutions that reflect code compliance and energy efficiency goals.
- Justify design decisions using data-driven outputs including energy modelling and regulatory requirements.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 24
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 36
Total Hours: 60
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 36
Total Hours: 60
Instructional Strategies
Lectures, handouts, group/team participation, field trip, props, videos and project/problem based learning activities are used.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C-
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
15 |
Code Interpretation Assignments |
|
Assignments |
25 |
Energy & Net‑Zero Design Analysis |
|
Project |
35 |
BIM‑Based Applied Project |
|
Assignments |
15 |
AI‑Supported Design Review Exercises |
|
Participation |
10 |
Participation / In‑Class Activities |
Course topics
- Overview of Canadian building codes (NBC, NECB, BC Energy Step Code) Energy Efficiency & Net-Zero Design Principles BIM Integration, Compliance & Project Application
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.