Energy Assessment Strategy
An Energy Assessment Strategy is a crucial part of a planning application in the UK, particularly for developments subject to local planning policies requiring sustainable design and construction, which includes most LPAs. It demonstrates how a proposed development will reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, aligning with national and local policies, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and specific local plans, such as the London Plan.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what an Energy Assessment Strategy typically includes:
Policy Context
Reference relevant planning policies, such as:
- National Policy: NPPF, Building Regulations Part L.
- Regional Policy: For example, the London Plan requires developments to follow the “Be Lean, Be Clean, Be Green” energy hierarchy.
- Local Policies: These may include additional carbon reduction targets or sustainability requirements.
Energy Hierarchy Approach
An effective strategy follows the energy hierarchy:
A. Be Lean: Use Less Energy
Focus on reducing energy demand through passive design and energy efficiency measures.
Example measures:
- Enhanced building fabric performance (e.g., high thermal insulation, airtightness).
- Optimizing orientation and layout for natural ventilation and daylight.
- High-efficiency lighting, appliances, and heating systems.
B. Be Clean: Supply Energy Efficiently
Propose systems that supply energy in a more efficient and low-carbon manner.
Example measures:
- Connection to a local district heating or combined heat and power (CHP) network.
- Shared energy systems for multi-unit developments.
- Efficient heat distribution systems within the building.
C. Be Green: Use Renewable Energy
Include on-site renewable energy technologies to further reduce carbon emissions.
Example measures:
- Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.
- Air or ground source heat pumps.
- Solar thermal systems for hot water.
- Wind turbines (if feasible).
Carbon Emissions Calculation
Baseline Scenario: Use Building Regulations (Part L 2021 or the latest standard) to calculate the carbon emissions of the development before implementing energy-saving measures.
Proposed Development: Calculate emissions after applying “lean,” “clean,” and “green” measures.
Demonstrate:
- Total percentage reduction in regulated CO₂ emissions.
- Unregulated CO₂ emissions reductions (optional but encouraged in some policies).
- Whether the development meets the required carbon reduction target (e.g., 35% in London).
Energy Demand Assessment
- Quantify the energy demand for the development, typically broken down into:
- Heating
- Cooling
- Hot water
- Electricity (lighting and appliances)
- Use standardized modelling tools, such as:
SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure): For residential developments.
- SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model): For non-residential developments.
Renewable Energy Feasibility Study
- Evaluate the feasibility of renewable energy technologies based on:
- Site-specific constraints (e.g., roof space, orientation, shading).
- Local planning requirements or limitations (e.g., conservation areas).
- Cost-effectiveness and payback period.
Overheating and Climate Resilience
- Address how the development will minimize the risk of overheating in future climate scenarios (as required by some local policies, like London’s Policy SI4).
- Example measures:
- External shading or brise-soleil.
- High-performance glazing.
- Natural ventilation or mechanical cooling systems designed for energy efficiency.
Carbon Offset Contributions (If Applicable)
- If the development cannot meet the required carbon reduction targets on-site, propose a financial contribution to a carbon offset fund (e.g., £price per tonne of CO₂ over 30 years in London).
- Justify why on-site measures are not sufficient and provide calculations for the offset amount.
Monitoring and Reporting
- Commit to monitoring the energy performance of the development post-construction to ensure it operates as intended (e.g., using smart meters or Building Management Systems).
- Some local authorities may require evidence of as-built energy performance through post-occupancy evaluations.
Supporting Documents
Include the following in the strategy:
- Energy Statement or Strategy: Detailed explanation of the measures to reduce energy demand and carbon emissions.
- Building Regulations Compliance: Proof that the proposal complies with or exceeds Part L standards.
- GLA Carbon Emissions Reporting Spreadsheet (if applicable): For developments in London, this demonstrates how the energy strategy aligns with the London Plan targets.
Consultation with Local Authorities
- Engage with local planning authorities (LPAs) early in the process to ensure the strategy meets their specific requirements.
- Address any additional sustainability goals, such as achieving BREEAM certification or integrating circular economy principles.