Non-domestic thermal calculations for Part L approval. 

SBEM Calculations (Simplified Building Energy Model) are the government-approved methodology for assessing and confirming the energy performance and carbon emissions of new and existing non-domestic buildings in the UK. SBEM is the commercial equivalent of SAP calculations used for residential properties. 

Purpose for Building Control Approval

The primary purpose of SBEM calculations for Building Control is to demonstrate mandatory compliance with Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power) of the UK Building Regulations. 

The process is mandatory for most new commercial builds and for certain extensions and refurbishments (e.g., extensions over 100m²). SBEM calculations are performed in two stages by a qualified non-domestic energy assessor: 

Design Stage: Conducted using architectural plans and building specifications before construction begins to ensure the design is compliant and to allow for cost-effective adjustments if needed.

As-Built Stage: Performed after construction is completed, using the final build details and actual test results (like airtightness). This stage produces the final SBEM report and the legally required Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), both of which are required for the building control officer to issue a completion certificate. 

Key Metrics and Deliverables

The SBEM software calculates the energy required for heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting over a typical 12-month period based on standardised occupancy patterns. Key metrics include: 

Building Emission Rate (BER): The calculated actual annual CO₂ emissions of the proposed building.

Target Emission Rate (TER): The maximum permitted annual CO₂ emissions for a notional building of the same size, shape, and use.

Compliance: The building passes if the BER is equal to or lower than the TER (BER ≤ TER).

Building Regulations UK Part L (BRUKL) Report: This is the official output document from the SBEM assessment, which details whether the building design meets Part L requirements. Building control requires this report for sign-off.

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): The data from the as-built SBEM is used to generate the building’s EPC, which rates its energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). 

SBEM calculations ensure that new non-domestic buildings are designed and constructed to meet minimum energy efficiency standards, reducing their energy demand, operational costs, and carbon footprint.