When it comes to the construction of new buildings, one of the critical elements that must be addressed is the determination of CO2 emission rates. This is not just a best practice but a regulatory requirement, achieved through SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) for domestic buildings or SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) for non-domestic buildings. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Alex Turner, a Senior Consultant at Queensberry LTD, to delve deeper into this topic and understand the processes involved.
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A Changing Landscape of Regulations
My conversation with Alex started with an overview of the evolving regulatory landscape. “The new Building Regulations, especially Part O of the 2021 Edition, have significantly altered how we approach building design and construction,” Alex began. “These regulations, which came into force in June 2022, are the first to specifically address the issue of overheating in new residential buildings.”
Alex explained that overheating is becoming an increasingly important consideration due to climate change and rising global temperatures. “Our work now involves ensuring that new buildings are not only energy-efficient but also resilient against future climate conditions. This is where our work with SAP and SBEM calculations comes into play.”
The Role of SAP and SBEM Calculations
SAP and SBEM calculations serve as the backbone for determining CO2 emissions in new buildings. Alex elaborated on the distinction between the two: “SAP is used for domestic buildings, while SBEM is used for non-domestic buildings. These calculations are essential because they help us quantify the energy consumption and the associated CO2 emissions of a building.”
He went on to explain the process: “For SAP calculations, we consider various factors including the building’s dimensions, insulation, heating systems, and even the type of windows and doors. SBEM, on the other hand, involves a more complex modelling process that looks at the building’s overall energy performance.”
Overheating Risk Analysis: A New Focus
One of the standout points of our discussion was the introduction of the Overheating Risk Analysis, a new compliance requirement under Part O. “Overheating has been a growing concern, especially in urban areas,” Alex noted. “We have two methods to ensure compliance: the simplified method prescribed in Part O and a more detailed dynamic thermal simulation.”
The simplified method is the first step. “We conduct an Overheating Risk Analysis to determine if the minimum requirements can be met. If the design fails this initial assessment, we then advise on necessary design changes.”
For more complex cases, Queensberry LTD utilises advanced Design Builder dynamic simulation software. “This software allows us to model the building against the CIBSE TM59 criteria,” Alex explained. “There are two criteria for compliance: Criterion A, which looks at the hours of exceedance in living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms, and Criterion B, which examines night hours above 26°C in bedrooms. If a dwelling fails either criterion, it indicates a risk of overheating, and we provide advice on how to mitigate this risk through design or specification measures.”
Practical Applications and Challenges
Curious about the practical applications, I asked Alex about some of the common challenges they face. “One of the biggest challenges is balancing energy efficiency with comfort,” he said. “For instance, while high levels of insulation can reduce energy consumption, they can also contribute to overheating if not properly managed.”
He continued, “Another challenge is the integration of renewable energy sources. While solar panels and other renewable technologies can significantly reduce CO2 emissions, they also add complexity to the overall building design and performance.”
Future Trends and Innovations
As our conversation drew to a close, I asked Alex about future trends in the field. “The industry is moving towards more integrated and holistic approaches to building design,” he observed. “We are seeing increased use of smart technologies and IoT (Internet of Things) devices that can monitor and optimise energy use in real-time.”
He also highlighted the growing importance of occupant behaviour. “Understanding how people use buildings is crucial. Even the most energy-efficient building can underperform if not used as intended. Therefore, educating occupants and encouraging sustainable behaviours is becoming an integral part of our work.”
Conclusion
My discussion with Alex Turner provided a comprehensive look into the meticulous process of determining CO2 emission rates for new buildings. Through SAP and SBEM calculations, and a keen focus on mitigating overheating risks, companies like Queensberry LTD are not only meeting regulatory requirements but also paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient built environment.
As the building regulations continue to evolve, it is clear that the industry must adapt to new challenges and opportunities. With experts like Alex leading the way, the future of building design looks promising, prioritising both energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
Marcia Snyder
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