SBEM Calculations (Non-Domestic)
Before work can commence on site, all non-domestic buildings must have an energy assessment completed to ensure the development is compliant with the current building regulations.
In Scotland, these requirements fall under ‘Section 6: Energy’ of the building regulations and in England and Wales, requirements are set out within ‘Part L2a – Conservation of Fuel and Power’. To ensure compliance is achieved, a certified Energy Consultant will need to complete a Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM). The SBEM methodology is the Government's adopted method for assessing all new build developments and is required to obtain a Building Warrant.
The SBEM calculation assesses the development's annual energy consumption for space heating, non-domestic hot water, lighting, and ventilation based on standardized assumptions for occupancy and behavior. These assumptions are dependent on the buildings primary use. The SBEM ratings are scored using a scale of 1 to 100, with 1 being poor and 100 being a zero-energy development.
What type of development requires an SBEM?
SBEM calculations are required for non-domestic buildings such as:
- Retail
- Offices and warehouses
- Care homes
- Community and leisure facilities
- Schools
- Hotels
How can we help?
SK/AD have a wealth of experience undertaking SBEM Calculations and can assist you through the relevant process.
If compliance is not achieved from the outset, our team of experts can assist with practicable, cost-effective solutions to meet the required standards.
If needed, our Approved Certifier of Design service can further assist the Building Warrant process. Our in-house building professionals can approve the developments design without further assessment from Local Authorities, saving on both time and build costs.
What is required for a SBEM calculation to be completed?
To complete an accurate SBEM assessment, we require confirmation of the wall, floor and roof constructions; the space and water heating specifications; ventilation specification; architectural drawings including floorplans, elevations and sections. If some specifications are yet to be finalized, we can assist with the required performances to achieve compliance.
The sooner an SBEM assessment can be completed the better, as non-compliance later on can cause delays in getting the project to site and potentially increase build costs.
