SBEM, or Simplified Building Energy Model are part of Part L Building Regulations and calculate the energy performance of non-dwellings, so new build commercial properties and buildings. Similar to SAP calculations for new build homes, SBEM calculations are needed to prove the building meets the Target Emission Rate for energy efficiency standards.
At Falcon Energy, we have extensive experience in providing SBEM calculations across the south east. If you have a commercial new build project approaching or are looking to convert or extend your commercial property, call us on 01403 253439 to get your essential SBEM calculations sorted.
What is an SBEM calculation and why are they important?
SBEM calculations are used to determine how energy efficient a commercial property is in line with government building regulations, and are performed by experienced energy assessors, like Falcon Energy.
A government-approved approach, SBEM calculations quantify how much heat, light and ventilation a commercial or other ‘non-dwelling’ property uses in a 12 month period under normal circumstances. This is used to determine how energy efficient and environmentally friendly it is overall.
Commercial sectors
We can provide SBEMs for a range of commercial properties, including:
- Offices
- Warehouses
- Leisure centres
- Hotels
- Hospitals
- Restaurants
- Retail shops
Our building energy modelling software can determine the carbon emissions and energy consumption of a range of proposed commercial properties. This will determine whether any further work is needed to improve energy performance.
At which stage should you request an SBEM calculation?
It’s extremely important that you instruct a qualified energy expert to undertake your SBEM calculations as soon as possible on a project, typically within the planning stage. The earlier that an assessor is instructed, the smoother the process will be.
It can prove to be costly if you instruct someone at the later stages of the build, as changes may need to be made to already built elements of the property, which can put the whole project on hold and cost a lot to rectify. Getting a company on board at the design stage of the project is preferable, so any necessary changes can easily be made to the plans to ensure the property is compliant and efficient.
What documentation do you need to provide?
Once you have a knowledgeable energy company to work on your build, a range of different documentation is required in order to provide an accurate calculation, including:
- Which types of heating are going to be used on the building
- The types of lighting to be used
- Ventilation and air conditioning systems
- The construction plans of the building
- Any renewable energy sources that are going to be used, such as solar panels or air source heat pumps
- The materials used on the building - such as walls, windows and roofs
Once all of this information has been provided, calculations can be completed to work out the overall SBEM calculation, which will then be able to provide a clear idea of the energy performance of the building.
Why use Falcon Energy?
With years of experience in the energy industry, particularly with conducting thorough, precise SBEM calculations, SAP calculations and energy performance certificate (EPC) calculations, you'll be in safe hands with Falcon Energy. Our team of knowledgeable assessors knows what to look out for and can offer expert advice should you need to cut down on energy waste or improve your commercial property's energy output.
We use state-of-the-art software, will deliver results on time and within budget plus we'll always keep you involved every step of the way and won't leave you in the dark.
Frequently Asked Questions
An SBEM is used to assess how energy efficient a commercial property is and stands for ‘Simplified Building Energy Model’.
It’s a computer programme that calculates results based on a building’s energy use and carbon dioxide emissions. It is required by law for the construction of and alterations to commercial buildings.
As a result, there are two types of SBEM;
- SBEM L2A - new commercial buildings prior to construction
- SBEM L2B - existing commercial buildings undergoing alterations
If you’re an owner or developer working on construction for a commercial property then you will need to arrange for the building to undergo an SBEM assessment. This is required by law. This includes all new commercial buildings and extensions such as offices and storage units.
An SBEM should be undertaken before the building work starts to ensure the building will comply with energy efficiency building regulations. A building will likely have multiple SBEM checks throughout its lifetime.
It may result in construction plans changing to meet energy efficiency standards, or it will mean the project can go ahead as planned if the calculations are within regulations.
The results of an SBEM will be affected by a building’s heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and lighting equipment. It may find that these systems need to be improved to meet standards and achieve cost savings in the long term.
Get in touch today
To find out more about Falcon Energy and our SBEM Calculations services, call our team on 01403 253439 or email info@falconenergy.co.uk