Energy and Sustainability Statements

Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) increasingly require energy or sustainability statements to accompany planning applications. LPAs generally expect the development to achieve a certain percentage reduction in CO₂ emissions and energy consumption compared with the latest Building Regulations.

We offer a quick turnaround for Energy Statements, depending on the size and complexity of the scheme. For example, for small developments with fewer than 5 units, we can normally complete the report within 3–5 working days. Our service is also affordable. Please get in touch for a friendly discussion and some initial advice.

1. Energy Statement

What is an Energy Statement?

An Energy Statement shows the predicted CO₂ emissions and energy consumption of a proposed development, together with a clear strategy for reducing them through the principles of the “Energy Hierarchy”, including improving building fabric efficiency, connecting to district heating networks or using CHP, and incorporating on-site renewable energy generation.

Although different LPAs may have different CO₂ reduction targets and requirements for the format and content of Energy Statements, the general “Energy Hierarchy” principles for reducing carbon emissions remain the same across LPAs.

Energy Statements should be submitted at the planning application stage. The Energy Statement must clearly outline the applicant’s commitments in terms of CO₂ savings and the measures proposed to achieve them. These commitments and measures will normally form part of the planning conditions if planning permission is granted. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that the Energy Statement is prepared accurately and that the proposed energy strategy is achievable.

What schemes require Energy Statements?

The types of schemes requiring Energy Statements vary between LPAs. The requirement for an Energy Statement normally applies to “major” new developments. However, we have seen a rapid increase in demand from LPAs for Energy Statements for very small schemes, including the creation of, or conversion to, a single new dwelling. For example, the London Borough of Enfield LPA provides the following pre-application advice

“ENERGY STATEMENT - As your proposed development involves the provision or conversion of 1+ new dwellings or involves the creation of 100+ sq.m. of floorspace, you will need to submit an Energy Statement in accordance with London Plan Policies 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3, and Core Policy 20 of Enfield's Core Strategy 2010.”

What content is included in our Energy Statement reports?

Our energy statement, strictly following the “Energy Hierarchy” principles stipulated in the London Plan and many other local planning policies, will typically include the following staged assessments:

STAGE 1 Baseline energy demand assessment. Part L Building Regulations 2013 currently provides the baseline standard that all buildings must meet. Our report will establish the baseline carbon emissions for a notional building constructed in accordance with the proposed building shape and size, and performance requirements set in the Part L 2013.
STAGE 2 "Be Lean" energy demand assessment and recommendations. The developments should seek to maximise the insulating properties (U-values) of the building fabric, achieve high levels of air tightness, and provide efficient services and lighting to reduce energy demand in buildings. Our report will provide clear recommendations on building fabric and service improvements.
STAGE 3 "Be Clean" energy demand assessment and recommendations. The developments should seek to supply the expected energy demands as efficiently as possible. Our report will evaluate the feasibility of decentralised energy systems (which may be fed by combined heat and power systems), and where possible to connect to existing district heating networks.
STAGE 4 "Be Green" energy demand assessment and recommendations. The developments should seek to incorporate renewable technology. Our report will assess the feasibility of various renewable technologies and provide advice on the most suitable technology for the site.

What methodology is used to produce Energy Statements?

SAP and SBEM are used to establish energy demand at the above stages. These SAP and SBEM calculations can be updated at a later stage for the purpose of Building Regulations approval.

2. Sustainability Statement

A Sustainability Statement needs to consider a much wider range of environmental issues and outline a strategy to reduce the development’s negative impact on the environment.

Because a Sustainability Statement covers a diverse range of environmental issues, we can only assess the following: