The Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) provides an analysis of a building's energy consumption. SBEM calculates monthly energy use and carbon dioxide emissions of a building given a description of the building geometry, construction, use and HVAC and lighting equipment. It was originally based on the Dutch methodology NEN 2916:1998 (Energy Performance of Non-Residential Buildings) and has since been modified to comply with the emerging CEN Standards.

SBEM is the procedure for demonstrating compliance with the Building Regulations for buildings other than dwellings is by calculating the annual energy use for a proposed building and comparing it with the energy use of a comparable 'notional' building.

SBEM makes use of standard sets of data for different activity areas and call on common databases of construction and service elements. A similar process  is used to produce a 'asset rating' in accordance with the Energy Performance Buildings Directive.

Ratings are scored on a scale of 1 to 100 where 1 is the worst and 100 has a zero energy usage. It can be possible to achieve a higher rating than 100 with the use of Micro Generation Technology to export energy to the National Grid.

As from the 6th of April 2008 under the Communities and Local Governments (CLG) commitment to the EU implemented Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) a new requirement of Energy Performance Certificates for Non-Domestic Buildings (EPC) for all buildings Constructed, Sold or Leased and Display Energy Certificates (DEC) will be introduced.

The current schedule is as follows:

Buildings over 10,000 m2  6th April 2008

Buildings over 2,500 m2  1st July 2008

Buildings over 50 m2  1st October 2008

Display Energy Certificates will be required for all Public buildings over 1,000 m2 from 1st October 2008

To obtain your SBEM rating, please send your detailed Building Control Plans/Building Log Book or your Planning designs and a completed SBEM Data Form (click to download) to GreenRock Energy, 11 Dunkirk Business Park, Southwick, Trowbridge, Wiltshire. BA14 9NL. Or simply contact us to find out what is required or for any further information