SBEM Calculations & Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM)

New non-residential buildings must comply with Part L2A of the Building Regulations; the Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) and Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM) are both approved methods for undertaking Part L2A compliance calculations, although they differ significantly in their suitability for compliance assessment. Stroma Technology is experienced in both methods of assessment.

Part L2A 2010

Part L2A 2010, implemented in October 2010, presents far greater challenges for new commercial buildings: Part L2A 2010 requires a 25% reduction in CO₂ emissions over previous 2006 standards, which equates to approximately a 46% improvement over 2002 requirements.

The challenge to meet these standards falls to all parties involved in new build non-residential development including developers, architects, building services engineers and contractors. Without a consistent and integrated approach towards compliance, the likelihood of failing to meet these standards is significantly greater and it is likely that either cost or delay will be incurred within any project.

Most notably, in addition to strict CO₂ targets, the challenge of meeting Criterion 3 (solar gain compliance) can mean the make or break of projects, if not addressed appropriately at the early stages of design.

Providing SBEM & DSM for Compliance Calculations

Both Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) and Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM) provide a calculation of the predicted energy consumed within a non-domestic building, through the modelling of the building’s features, including:

• Building Geometry, location and orientation
• Thermal Performance (U-values, air tightness)
• Building Services (HVAC)
• Lighting
• Controls

While both methods are approved for undertaking compliance assessments, DSM provides a significantly more accurate and complex assessment. In light of the challenges introduced in the 2010 regulations, in the majority of cases DSM offers the design team significant benefits, not least of which is peace of mind.

DSM calculations run iterations at 10-minute intervals throughout the year, linking to actual historical weather data and accurate sun path analysis. It is such features, not available in SBEM, which provide the greatest benefit to assessment. Stroma Technology’s team of Energy Assessors are all trained and accredited in the use of industry-leading DSM software, IES Virtual Environment.

Stroma Technology’s Approach to Part L2A Compliance

Stroma Technology has developed an approach to Part L2A compliance, which matches the needs of our Clients, whether developers, design team members or contractors, and has sufficient flexibility to provide the greatest cost-effective benefit to the team.

Stroma Technology has a 3 tier approach to compliance, from a role integrated into the project team, providing guidance and assistance all the way from the concept/pre-tender stages through to project completion to a ‘sense check’ compliance only assessment.

Our approach delivers improved cost certainty, along with the benefit of value-added assistance throughout a project, leading to a cost-effective compliance solution for any project.

With other complementary services undertaken within the same team, such as air-tightness design advice, BREEAM, SAP, Code and Renewable Energy feasibility reports, Stroma Technology can provide a truly integrated assessment service

Related Case Studies

Volker
Fitzpatrick

Carbon Emission and Energy Assessment, SBEM and EPC.