The Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) is a tool used in the UK to assess the energy performance of new or existing non-domestic buildings. It calculates the energy required for lighting, ventilation, cooling, and heating, along with the building’s carbon emissions.
As a standardized framework, SBEM helps us understand energy consumption and carbon emissions, comprehensively assessing a building’s environmental impact. These estimates make it easy to ensure the building meets the required standards. In addition, having these estimates helps building owners and managers identify opportunities for energy efficiency improvements and sustainability measures.
While SBEM is a valuable tool for understanding and assessing a building’s energy performance, it is considered a mandatory requirement for demonstrating compliance with UK building regulations.
In this blog, we explore the role of SBEM in UK building regulations. We provide a brief overview of its role in compliance, its requirements, and the importance of seeking SBEM advisory from trusted SBEM assessors in the UK. Read on!
SBEM and Compliance in the UK
SBEM is central to demonstrating compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations (BRUKL Report).
“The Part L BRUKL Report is a specific section within the UK Building Regulations that sets standards for energy efficiency in existing and new non-domestic buildings. This includes warehouses, offices, public buildings, leisure centers, retail units, commercial spaces, and even community buildings,” says one energy assessment expert at Southern Assessors.
Part L outlines the minimum energy performance requirements that these buildings must meet to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and overall energy consumption. This section includes energy efficiency targets, carbon emission limits, renewable energy requirements, and guidelines for heating and ventilation systems.
SBEM in the UK & Its Benefits:
SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) is a tool for checking whether a building meets the requirements of Part L. This framework calculates how much energy a building uses and how many carbon dioxide emissions it produces.
From a compliance point of view, building owners use SBEM to ensure their buildings adhere to Part L, helping them avoid legal issues and penalties. Additionally, SBEM assists building owners in lowering energy costs, reducing their carbon footprint, and making their buildings more energy-efficient.
When Are SBEM Assessments in the UK Performed?
A BRUKL report on SBEM assessments is required in two phases i.e. before construction and after construction of the building. SBEM calculations are also required for existing buildings that don’t meet the minimum standards.
For new buildings, SBEM calculations are first needed during the design phase to secure permission for construction. Then, after construction is completed, the calculations are required again to verify that the building meets the requirements set forth in the design stage and complies with regulations.
The second stage, where the BRUKL compliance is confirmed after the SBEM calculations are made, is essential for obtaining completion reports and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which the Building Control Officer requires.
Key Components of an SBEM Assessment
SBEM assessments in the UK are a comprehensive process that starts with building geometry and its divisions into functional zones. The SBEM assessment evaluates various construction types and system efficiencies to ensure a thorough analysis of the building’s energy performance. To this end, the assessor employs powerful software simulation tools that follow the SBEM methodology, allowing for detailed 3D assessments.
The Need for SBEM Advisory in the UK
The specialized tools perform comprehensive 3D modeling and provide an accurate and customized assessment. Their comprehensiveness gives flexibility during design phases, ensuring better evaluations while remaining within design regulations.
Due to the extensive factors involved in performing SBEM assessments, expertise in building design, energy systems assessment, software tools, and assessment methodologies is required. Trusted assessors are crucial for this process.
As one of the most trusted SBEM assessors in the UK, Southern Assessors possesses an exceptional expertise and track record of delivering accurate and consistent SBEM assessments that ensure seamless compliance. If you are looking for SBEM assessments in the UK, contact us here: Call@0800 6123801