The way new homes are assessed for energy efficiency is changing significantly. The current Standard Assessment Procedure is set to be replaced by the Home Energy Model in 2025, alongside the introduction of the Future Homes Standard. This blog post dives into what housebuilders need to know about the Home Energy Model and how it will impact their building practices.
The way new houses in the UK are assessed for energy efficiency is getting a major overhaul. The current system, SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure), has served its purpose since 2002, but it’s time for a more modern approach. As advancements in construction materials and a growing focus on sustainability take centre stage, SAP is no longer enough. Enter the Home Energy Model (HEM) – a new approach set to transform how we measure a building’s energy efficiency.
Why the Shift to the Home Energy Model?
SAP, while effective, has limitations. Its methodology hasn’t kept pace with advancements in building technologies and so struggles to accurately predict real-world energy use. The Home Energy Model aims to address this by:
- Increased Data Detail: HEM requires much more specific information about a dwelling. This includes the number of bedrooms, appliance ratings, precise measurements of living spaces, and even shading details from surrounding structures.
- Improved Accuracy: With this extra data and the use of half-hour timesteps, HEM can provide a more accurate simulation of a home’s energy performance and its impact on the environment.
- Future-Proofing: HEM considers potential future technologies like heat batteries, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of a home’s energy efficiency.
What This Means for Housebuilders
Housebuilders will need to adapt to the new system. Here’s how HEM will impact them:
- Early Planning: The extensive data required by HEM necessitates a more collaborative approach from the very beginning of the design process (RIBA Stages 1 & 2). Housebuilders should work closely with architects and engineers to optimise energy efficiency from the start.
- Limited Design Changes: Since alterations after the initial design phase can significantly affect the HEM results, builders will have less flexibility for major modifications. Offering pre-designed, HEM-compliant house plans can streamline the process and reduce the need for extensive design changes later.
- Increased Assessment Time: Gathering and processing the additional data will lead to longer assessment times compared to the current SAP system. Working with an experienced consultant can help to streamline data collection, identify potential issues early through modelling software, and navigate the assessment process for a smoother experience.
The Home Energy Model goes beyond SAP, potentially working alongside new on-site tests like stricter air testing and smart meter data analysis.
The Road Ahead
The Home Energy Model is still under development, with a beta version currently being used for consultation purposes. Expect further refinements before its official launch in 2025. This signifies a significant step towards ensuring new homes are built with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, ultimately contributing to achieving the UK’s climate goals.
A Glimpse into the Future
The Home Energy Model is paving the way for a future where homes are not just built, but strategically designed and constructed with energy efficiency as a core principle. This can lead to:
- Reduced Reliance on Fossil Fuels: As homes become more energy-efficient, the demand for traditional energy sources like coal and gas will decrease.
- Greener Communities: Lower energy consumption translates to a smaller carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future.
- Smarter Energy Management: HEM’s focus on future technologies like heat batteries paves the way for a more integrated approach to managing a home’s energy usage.
The Home Energy Model represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future for housing in the UK. While there will be adjustments for both housebuilders and homeowners, the long-term benefits make this a positive development.
Navigate the new Home Energy Model with confidence and partner with us to build future-proof homes. We provide expert consulting to ensure your designs meet future standards. We offer HEM compliance expertise, early-stage design optimisation, and a streamlined assessment process. Contact us today for a free consultation.