An Energy Statement is required to demonstrate that a proposed building or development in UK is sustainable and will meet local energy policies and sustainability targets.
Prepared by certified energy assessors or energy consultants in the UK, this Energy Statement is a legal document that comprehensively covers a range of energy assessments using specialized software and tools.
Energy Statements for Planning Applications
An Energy Statement is submitted as part of a planning application to the Local Planning Authority (LPA), which reviews the energy statements and verifies if the upcoming development complies with target energy policies and regulations.
So, how exactly did the Energy Statement come into play, what’s it all about, and how do you even get one prepared? If you’re planning a building or development in the UK, you must boost your knowledge of energy statements and why they matter.
In this blog, with insights from top energy assessors in UK (cheers to our mates at Southern Assessors!), we’ll walk you through the essentials of Energy Statements in UK. Read on:
Energy Statements in UK – A Brief Background:
The requirements for an Energy Statement primarily stem from several sources, including Building Regulation Part L, local planning policies set by the local planning authorities, and national guidelines like the National Policy Framework.
There is no one standard requirement, though; specific requirements for Energy Statements can vary depending on the region. London, for example, is especially notable, as the London Plan imposes stricter energy standards on all developments within the city, aiming for higher sustainability and efficiency targets.
What does an Energy Statement in the UK cover and contain?
An Energy Statement in the UK typically covers critical assessments to ensure a building’s energy performance is up to scratch. Here’s a quick rundown:
Baseline Energy & CO2 Calculations: This calculates the baseline for a building’s energy performance and identifies the maximum allowable CO2 emissions.
Efficient Heating, Hot Water, and Ventilation & Lighting: Suggests ways to improve these systems to save energy.
Thermal Efficiency Improvements: Looks at strategies to boost insulation and reduce heat loss (higher the better)
Local Heat Network Review: Checks if connecting to a district heating network is feasible.
Predicted Energy Savings: Shows how proposed upgrades will cut energy use and meet sustainability goals.
Renewable Energy Feasibility: Explores options for solar panels, heat pumps, or other renewable tech.
In addition to the above, the energy statement in the UK also details water efficiency, urban drainage calculations and proposals, and the building’s overall sustainability performance.
Who reviews Energy Statements in UK?
The detailed energy report is generated after carefully assessing all the above metrics and is submitted to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) as part of a planning application. The LPA reviews the statement to verify that the development complies with local policies and regulations before approval. In some cases, the LPA may agree, subject to certain conditions, to improve energy efficiency. The LPA may refuse the planning application if the energy statement does not meet local energy targets. The review process and timeline may depend on the project’s complexity and the LPA’s workload.
For fast, smooth approvals, an energy assessors in UK plays a central role at this stage.
Leading Energy Assessors in the UK: Southern Assessors
Southern Assessors are trusted energy consultants across the UK, known for delivering precise, hassle-free energy assessments. Our team of highly qualified energy assessors in UK work hand-in-glove with the building control and ensure every project efficiently meets local regulatory standards.
We also offer consulting services that help clients implement their energy requirements smoothly and make the process as simple as possible. For reliable, seamless, and quick compliance on any project, Southern Assessors is here to support you every step of the way.