The non-renewable energy sources are being exhausted at a huge rate. It is vital for you to save energy for the future generations. Buildings being the major consumer of energy, it is vital to focus on their usage. The U.K Building Regulations Authorities have been able to develop efficient regulations that restrict the wastage of the energy. The focus is more on the commercial properties as these are the major consumers. The compliance standards of Conservation of Fuel & Power Part L are quite high. The SBEM calculations is a government led process that ensures that the buildings are in compliance with this Part L. This is applicable for every non-dwelling property including business organizations, offices, hotels, schools and more. These calculations pertain to the buildings in the U.K.

The SBEM calculations portray that the actual building performs better as regards the energy efficiency, when compared to a notional building. This hypothetical building has the same size and shape of the actual building and complies with the current standard set by the regulations. Also, the activities that are performed at individual zones are alike. The only difference that you can find is the percentage glazing used within the calculations and the mechanical and electrical installations. This calculates the energy costs and emissions associated with the processes of heating, lighting and ventilation of the building. The notional building will be generating Target Emission Rate (TER) in KgCO2/m² per annum. This target set by the regulations is a benchmark for the buildings, and should not be exceeded by them. The emissions produced by the actual building are measured in terms of Building Emission Rate (BER).

Apart from the CO2 emission calculations, you need to know about u-value standards too. This Building Regulation is associated with the external elements including efficiency of heat sources, power consumption through mechanical ventilation, lighting of the building, air tightness, etc. The aim is not to create a building that merely meets the standard regulations. If done so, this would not comply with the SBEM calculations. The minimum standards need to be raised in order to witness a positive outcome. These days, the building is unable to pass without the implementation of renewable energy strategies. Photo-voltaics, air or ground source heat pumps, solar thermal power, combined heat and power, etc are the features that can be incorporated into the calculation tool. The SBEM services offered by the professionals with huge experience would help you achieve building compliance.

In the U.K, the Energy Performance Certificates are mandatory requirements, especially if you are building, selling or letting the property. The EPC gauges the building on a scale with rating from A+ to G. There are numerous factors including the age, construction type, mechanical services, etc of the building that are taken into account. This is a great venture that helps the prospective buyers receive trustable information regarding the property. The construction industry is expected to comply with the BREEAM standards. This is focused in describing the performance capability of the buildings.

Jason Cook is the author of this article on CO2 Emission Calculations. Find more information, about Energy Performance Certificates here