Stroma Built Environment provides Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) calculations and Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM) for non-domestic buildings, including schools, healthcare facilities, offices, retail units, and more.
Our highly skilled energy assessors have years of experience delivering a professional service with rapid and accurate reporting. We can help you achieve compliance with Part L2a of the Building Regulations and ensure a smooth handover process.
What Are SBEM Calculations?
The Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) is a software calculator created by the Building Research Establishment (BRE). SBEM calculations measure the energy consumption of non-domestic and commercial buildings - much like SAP calculations for domestic dwellings.
Under Part L2a of the Building Regulations, SBEM calculations are a mandatory requirement for all new build commercial properties, conversions, and large extensions. An SBEM assessment will identify the building's CO2 emissions and energy consumption, and suggests actions to ensure compliance and improve energy costs.
Additionally, SBEM calculations allow energy assessors to produce an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This enables designers to ensure their projects meet current requirements from the outset.
Benefits of a professional SBEM assessment include:
- Designers can quickly assess the best solutions for each project
- Minimises the time & costs associated with the compliance process
- Helps achieve BREEAM credits
- Increases the potential for funding, grants & incentives
- Cost-effective way for project managers to meet sustainability goals
Our SBEM Assessment Services
You will need an SBEM assessment during pre- and post-construction stages. At Stroma, we offer a range of SBEM calculations for new build and existing non-domestic and commercial properties.
SBEM for New Builds:
- Design Stage SBEM Calculations: These SBEM calculations are a legal requirement, and an accredited energy assessor must carry them out before construction begins.
- As-Built SBEM Calculations: These SBEM calculations are required after the construction phase to ensure the building is still fully compliant with Part L2a.
SBEM for Existing Buildings:
For existing buildings, SBEM calculations may be required to demonstrate compliance with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) legislation.
This SBEM assessment must be completed by an accredited energy assessor, who will measure the energy performance of the building in its current condition against MEES criteria.
The results can then be used to generate an EPC, which is required before the building can be let or sold.
Additional Services: Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM)
Alongside SBEM calculations, we offer detailed thermal models of proposed developments using sophisticated DSM and IES Virtual Environment software. This enables us to assess your project's potential environmental performance before it is built.
In many cases, DSM (Dynamic Simulation Modelling) offers greater detail than an SBEM assessment by factoring in external information - such as real-time data, historical weather figures, and sun path analysis.
Dynamic Simulation Modelling also enables designers to develop and test energy-saving strategies (e.g., lighting systems or renewable energy sources) by covering several key areas:
- Energy usage & CO2 emissions
- Building geometry, location & orientation
- Lighting & controls
- Daylight / sunlight analysis
- Renewable technology feasibility
- Building services (HVAC systems)
- Thermal performance & overheating (U-values / air tightness)
By understanding a building's energy requirements, we can help clients use resources efficiently, reduce energy consumption, improve sustainability, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SBEM method?
SBEM, or Simplified Building Energy Model, is a computer software which provides an analysis of a building's energy consumption under standardised operating conditions.
More specifically, the SBEM uses the building's geometry, construction, and services equipment to estimate its monthly energy use and CO2 emissions.
What is the difference between SBEM and SAP?
SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) is the standard method of assessing the energy efficiency of domestic dwellings.
SBEM calculations, or the Simplified Building Energy Model, on the other hand, are required for non-domestic and commercial buildings.
Both of these assessments can be used to generate an EPC, which demonstrates the energy efficiency of a building.
Is SBEM required for refurbishment?
No, SBEM calculations are not required for refurbishments. An SBEM assessment is only needed for a commercial new build, conversion, or extension.