Energy Statement for Planning: Do I Need One?

An Energy Statement (also known as a Sustainability Statement or Energy Strategy) for planning is often required for planning permission, outlining a project’s projected energy usage, carbon emissions, and the strategic measures planned to meet decarbonisation and sustainability goals.

In this blog, you’ll learn:

• The key role an energy statement for planning plays in the process for new developments
• Who typically requires one and the common reasons why
• The benefits of commissioning a comprehensive Energy Statement
• The typical contents and what key details it outlines
• Key considerations for preparing a successful Energy Statement

What is an Energy Statement for Planning?

It’s important not to confuse an Energy Statement with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). While an EPC assesses a building’s energy efficiency post-construction, the Energy Statement is a forward-looking document, integral to the planning stage of a development. It ensures that new constructions adhere to sustainable building practices and actively contribute to the reduction of overall environmental impact. As regulations evolve to increasingly emphasise sustainability, the Energy Statement has become an indispensable tool for architects, builders, and developers aiming to secure planning permissions.

An Energy Statement is a technical document specific to the planning phase, detailing:

• Projected Energy Consumption: a forecast of the building’s anticipated energy demand for heating, cooling, lighting, and other operational uses.
• Anticipated Carbon Emissions: the expected carbon emissions associated with the projected energy use.
• Energy Efficiency Strategies: Concrete plans and methodologies to significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce the building’s overall environmental impact.
• Renewable Energy Integration: An assessment of the potential for incorporating on-site renewable energy sources.

Local Planning Authority Sustainability Targets

When planning a new construction project, whether it’s a residential complex or a commercial venue, including an Energy Statement with the initial planning documents is often mandatory. These are submitted to the Local Planning Authority (LPA), such as the City of Bristol LPA. These documents must meticulously outline the project’s approach to meeting local energy efficiency benchmarks, which can vary significantly between jurisdictions. It’s important to thoroughly investigate the specific Carbon Emission Reduction Targets and Renewable Energy Goals established by your LPA.

In our sustainability statements, we outline the planning policy context for you, covering both National and specific Regional & Local policies. This ensures your energy strategy is fully aligned with all relevant frameworks and targets, proactively avoiding potential pitfalls and delays.

Did you know? LPAs typically expect developments to achieve a reduction in carbon emissions or energy consumption by 10%, 15%, or even 19% beyond what is mandated by national Building Regulations. The Greater London Authority (GLA), for example, introduced regulations in October 2016 that exceed these common thresholds, highlighting the regional variation.

Building Compliance Sustainability Statements & Energy Strategy

South Gloucestershire Council Sustainable Energy Planning Requirements

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Do I Need an Energy Statement?

If you’re involved in any of the following roles and working on New build projects (residential or commercial) or Major refurbishments or extensions, you will very likely require an Energy Statement:

• Property Developers
• Architects
• Building Contractors
• Commercial Building Owners
• Residential Developers
• Urban Planners

Common Reasons for Needing a Sustainability Statement

Beyond simply being a requirement, an Energy or Sustainability Statement offers significant advantages:

1. To Secure Planning Permission

Energy Statements are often a non-negotiable prerequisite for obtaining planning permission from local authorities. They provide concrete evidence of how a proposed development will meet the specific energy efficiency and sustainability criteria set by local planning policies, thereby dramatically increasing the likelihood of project approval. Without one, your application could face significant delays or outright rejection.

2. To Demonstrate Regulatory Compliance

With increasingly tighter building regulations in place to reduce carbon emissions and promote energy efficiency, an Energy Statement serves as evidence that a project complies with national standards, such as the Building Regulations Part L (Conservation of Fuel & Power). It precisely details how the development will meet or exceed these regulatory requirements, providing peace of mind to developers and authorities alike.

3. To Achieve Sustainability Goals

For developers, architects, and planners committed to creating truly environmentally friendly and sustainable projects, Energy Statements provide a vital framework. They enable the integration of sustainable design principles from the outset, outlining proactive strategies for reducing carbon footprints, effectively utilising renewable energy sources, and minimising overall environmental impact, thereby aligning the project with broader, more impactful sustainability objectives.

4. To Qualify for Green Building Certifications

Energy Statements can play a crucial role in achieving certifications under green building standards such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) or NABERS UK (National Australian Built Environment Rating System). Sustainability certifications are increasingly sought after for their ability to enhance a building’s marketability, value, and appeal to environmentally conscious tenants or buyers, demonstrating a commitment to high operational energy performance.

5. To Enhance a Building’s Energy Efficiency and Reduce Costs

Perhaps one of the most tangible benefits, an Energy Statement precisely identifies opportunities to improve a building’s energy performance, from the initial design phase through to construction and operational use. It offers a detailed analysis of projected energy use and recommends specific, impactful measures to increase efficiency. These can include:

• High-efficiency HVAC systems
• Enhanced insulation and glazing
• Energy-efficient lighting solutions (e.g., LED)
• Smart building controls and automation

Ultimately, these measures lead to substantial long-term operational cost savings for building owners and a significantly reduced environmental impact.

Building Compliance Sustainability Statements & Energy Strategy

Sustainability Statement: Cotswold Homes, South Gloucestershire

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Considerations When Preparing an Energy Statement for Planning

Producing a high-quality Energy Statement involves a complex interplay of sophisticated technical analysis, in-depth regulatory knowledge, and astute strategic planning. This is precisely why it is highly recommended to engage experienced professionals – especially given its importance in securing planning approval.

Here are some key benefits and challenges that an experienced professional can skillfully navigate:

1. Data Collection & Accuracy

One of the primary hurdles in preparing an Energy Statement is gathering accurate and comprehensive data on the proposed development’s design, specified materials, and operational characteristics. This precise data forms the bedrock for all subsequent analyses and recommendations. Obtaining this information, particularly in the early stages of design or for innovative/unconventional projects, can be challenging without expert guidance.

2. Alignment with Local Regulations

As mentioned previously, the statement must not only comply with national Building Regulations but also align with the specific energy and carbon reduction targets set by various Local Planning Authorities. These local targets can vary significantly across different regions, adding a layer of complexity to the preparation.

3. Balancing Cost vs. Performance (optimising investment)

Striking an optimal balance between the upfront costs of energy efficiency measures and long-term savings or benefits can be challenging, particularly in a competitive market environment where initial costs are a significant consideration.

Striking the optimal balance between the upfront capital costs of implementing energy efficiency measures and the long-term operational savings and environmental benefits can be a delicate act. This is particularly true in a competitive market environment where initial construction costs are often a significant consideration. Our professionals use modelling to help you identify the most cost-effective solutions that deliver maximum impact.

What’s Next?

While often required for planning, an Energy Statement is more than just a planning document; it’s a strategic blueprint that underpins your project’s sustainability goals. By meticulously outlining your energy strategy and precisely aligning it with complex, multi-layered policy frameworks, it paves the way for efficient, compliant, and environmentally responsible buildings that benefit both the planet and your project’s bottom line.

Ready to navigate the intricacies of energy statements with confidence? Our team of experts is here to provide the clarity and guidance you need, ensuring your project seamlessly meets all regulatory demands and achieves its full sustainability potential.

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Sustainability Statements & Energy Strategy

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Don’t leave your planning permission to chance. Contact us today to discuss how we can streamline your path to planning approval.