Building: Environmental Considerations
SBEM or the Simplified Building Energy Model to give it its full title is a calculation used to rate a building based on its energy efficiency and energy use. They usually form part of the Building Control Application and are submitted at the same time.
The SBEM calculation was introduced in 2006 as part of the Part L section of the Building Regulations. The introduction of Part L has been to drive down carbon emissions and to encourage designers and developers to consider the environment, both local and global when building new developments.
SBEM calculations are made up from data taken at the design stage and the as-built stage. The data taken at both stages is combined to give an overall result that is then applied to the development. The developers will need to provide plans and elevations, building specification and site plan with orientation.
The calculations can usually take two to three weeks to put together so it is important that all information is submitted at once. There are energy consultants available throughout the UK who can offer advice and help with what is needed on a development by development basis. It can be possible to get the calculations completed in less time but this will depend on the energy consultants used.
