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.
In this blog, you’ll learn:
- What the Home Energy Model is and how it differs from the current SAP method
- The benefits of HEM compliance for housebuilders
- How HEM will impact the building process
- Why the Future Homes Standard is driving the shift towards HEM and the role of SAP in the transition
- How to navigate the new regulations
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:
- Data Requirements: HEM requires much more specific information about a dwelling and its surroundings. This includes the number of bedrooms, appliance ratings, precise measurements of living spaces, and shading details from surrounding structures – leading to more accurate simulations. In contrast, SAP relies on a less granular data set.
- Accuracy: With this data-rich approach and the use of half-hour timesteps, HEM delivers a more realistic picture of a home’s energy consumption and environmental impact. SAP’s monthly calculations provide a good baseline, but HEM offers a more precise assessment.
- Future-Proofing: HEM considers potential technologies like heat batteries, offering a more holistic assessment of long-term energy efficiency. SAP does not account for these emerging technologies.
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:
- Early Collaboration: The extensive data required by HEM necessitates a more collaborative approach from the very beginning of the design process (RIBA Stages 1 & 2). Architects, engineers and housebuilders should work closely to optimise energy efficiency from the start.
- Design Optimisation: Since post-design modifications can significantly impact HEM results, builders will have less flexibility for major modifications. Offering pre-designed, HEM-compliant house plans can streamline processes and minimise later modifications.
- Extended Assessment Time: Gathering and processing the additional data will likely lead to longer assessment times compared to SAP. Partnering with experienced consultants can expedite data collection, identify potential issues early through modelling software, and ensure a smoother overall experience.
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:
- Cost Savings: Energy-efficient homes are more cost-effective to operate, potentially leading to increased property value and faster sales.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption translates to a smaller carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future.
- Marketing Advantage: HEM-compliant homes can be marketed as sustainable and future-proof, attracting environmentally conscious buyers.
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:
- 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 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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