The government is seeking industry views on its proposed new Home Energy Model (HEM), which is set to replace the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for the energy rating of homes. Introduced in 1993, SAP is used to estimate the energy performance of homes across the United Kingdom.
The Home Energy Model is still under development and the first version is scheduled to be implemented alongside the Future Homes Standard in 2025. Its initial purpose is to demonstrate compliance of new homes with Part L of the Building Regulations. Further functions will be added, including the production of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
Said to be the result of a lengthy development process to align with modern international energy modelling standards and the best available technical evidence, a key difference will see the new method simulate energy performance for each half-hour of the day, compared to the current monthly model for SAP.
The consultation, which applies to buildings in England only, closes on March 6. It covers the development work undertaken to date and invites feedback to enable further development in advance of the launch.
How to respond
The consultation document is available to read here. The government says it would prefer responses to be submitted via its online survey, although it is also possible to use email, making it clear which questions you are responding to, at FutureHomesandBuildingsStandards@levellingup.gov.uk
Responses can also be sent by post to:
Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation
Building Systems and Net Zero Directorate
Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities
Fry Building
2 Marsham Street
London
SW1P 4DF
