Alberta’s building code was updated with the 2023 Alberta Edition of the National Building Code (effective May 1, 2024) alberta.ca. These changes will fully impact commercial projects in 2025. The major updates cover barrier-free design, energy efficiency, and life-safety systems, among others. Developers and architects must be aware of these or risk costly revisions. 

• Barrier-Free & Accessibility Standards: The new code strengthens accessibility rules. It now requires more inclusive features across building types. For example, Alberta’s code update “reduces barriers” by updating requirements for entrances, clearances, signage, plumbing fixtures and elevators nrc.canada.ca. In practice this means more wheelchair spaces in assembly areas, grab-bars in washrooms, and level-access doorways. (For instance, assembly rooms that once were exempt must now include safety glazing and accessible seating nrc.canada.caedmonton.ca.) These standards align with Alberta’s broader push for universal design; Calgary even has city STANDATA emphasizing accessible design in renovations. For architects this means checking every doorway and restroom layout against the code, and for developers it may slightly increase initial costs but hugely improves usability and compliance. 

• Energy Efficiency (New Tiered Requirements): Energy codes have stepped up. Alberta adopted the 2020 National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB) with an emphasis on Tiered performance. By default, Alberta will use Tier 1 (the most basic level) as the province-wide minimum bildalberta.canrc.canada.ca. That said, higher tiers (up to net-zero) are optional for clients seeking extra efficiency. Practically, the code now mandates better insulation, tighter seals, and more efficient systems. New commercial projects (not just homes) must meet these standards. In Calgary and Edmonton, city staff now expect detailed energy models with permit applications, and new buildings often include high-efficiency HVAC and lighting by default. Early design should account for these changes so that specs (e.g. R-values, window U-factors) meet the 2020 NECB Tier requirements – otherwise plans will be returned for revision. 

• Life Safety and Building Systems: Several safety provisions have been updated. Notably, rules for fire safety glazing now cover more situations nrc.canada.ca – any large window or door in an assembly space typically needs tempered or laminated glass. The code also introduced stricter legionella control for cooling towers and evaporative condensers nrc.canada.ca, requiring specific spacing and treatment to minimize bacteria risk. Additionally, Alberta now permits mass-timber commercial buildings up to 12 storeys nrc.canada.ca, which means architects and contractors can design taller wood structures than before – but must follow the new engineered wood construction rules. 2023 codes also reinforced requirements for sprinkler and alarm systems in renovations of public buildings. 

• Practical Implications: In summary, if you’re planning a 2025 commercial project in Calgary or Edmonton, expect permit reviewers to scrutinize these areas. Barrier-free washrooms and corridors must be clearly shown; energy compliance forms (AB Code A2021-C and NECB2017 references) will be required; and mechanical drawings must reflect new HVAC filters or water treatment for legionella. It’s wise to consult the Alberta Code change comparison documents or NRC’s code highlights nrc.canada.caalberta.ca when designing. Architects should engage code consultants early to integrate these changes. Ultimately, the updates aim to make buildings safer, greener and more accessible – but they do add steps in the design process. 

Sources: Official government sources outline these updates. Alberta’s online codes portal confirms the 2023 NBC Alberta Edition is in force alberta.ca. The NRC’s code highlights summarize new accessibility and energy provisions nrc.canada.canrc.canada.ca. Industry associations (e.g. BILD Alberta) also note Alberta has adopted Tier 1 energy code and emphasize the May 2024 implementation bildalberta.ca.