In this blog, you’ll learn:

Building Compliance & SAP Calculations

The landscape of energy efficiency assessment for new houses in the UK is undergoing a significant transformation. The current SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) has served its purpose since 2002 but as advancements in construction materials and a growing focus on sustainability take centre stage, SAP is no longer enough and is set for retirement in 2025. Enter the Future Homes Standard and its accompanying assessment methodology: the Home Energy Model (HEM) – a new approach set to transform how we measure a building’s energy efficiency.

How Does The Home Energy Model Differ From SAP?

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 (HEM) offers a more comprehensive and future-oriented approach to assessing a dwelling’s energy efficiency. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

This increased level of detail and focus on future enhancements allows the Home Energy Model to provide a more accurate and future-proof assessment of a home’s energy performance compared to SAP.

What’s the Home Energy Model’s Impact on Housebuilders?

It is crucial that Housebuilders adapt to the new system. Here’s a breakdown of HEM’s implications:

The Home Energy Model goes beyond SAP, potentially working alongside new on-site tests like stricter air testing and smart meter data analysis.

Benefits of Home Energy Model Compliance

Transitioning to HEM compliance will offer several advantages for housebuilders:

The Road Ahead (with a note on the beta version)

The Home Energy Model is still under development, with a beta version currently in use for consultations. The official launch in 2025 is expected to bring further refinements. In the meantime, SAP calculations will likely remain an important part of the transition period to the Future Homes Standard.

Looking Forward

The Home Energy Model paves the way for a future where homes are strategically designed and constructed with energy efficiency as a core principle. This can lead to:

The Home Energy Model represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future for housing in the UK. While adjustments are inevitable for both housebuilders and homeowners, the long-term benefits make this a positive development.

Build with Confidence in the Future

Navigate the new Home Energy Model with confidence and partner with us to build future-proof homes. We offer expert consulting to ensure your designs meet future standards. We offer compliance expertise, early-stage design optimisation services, and a streamlined assessment process. Contact us today for a free consultation on your new build project.

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