Are you ready or will you get left in the dark! With the expected changes due to be announced in December 2021 for the updated building regulations, we thought it would be good to share our understanding of one of the changes set to be included in the newest SAP 10 methodology.
What does this mean for property developer and house builders
In essence the changes look to promote the inclusion of lower energy use light fittings within residential developments. Whilst, currently SAP 2012 methodology encourages the use of low energy light fittings, it does however fail to look at the particular energy usage for the types of low energy light fittings used. This can mean some properties have higher energy usage due to the type of light fittings used.
The new sap 10 methodology now looks at the quantity and type of light fitting with particular attention to the usage in Watts and the amount of Lumens the fitting provides.
Under the new regulations developers will need to provide to the energy assessor a schedule of the light fittings confirming their type, Watts and Lumens. This is an important inclusion within the new sat methodology to better understand the energy use for light fittings within a dwelling, meaning the predicted energy usage will be more accurate compared to current SAP 2012 calculations.
Surprisingly the new SAP 10 methodolgy doesn't look at the methods of controls used for lighting unlike SBEM calculations for commercial buildings.
What should you do to ensure your next project is compliant?
Firstly you should ensure that a detailed lighting specification is provided to your energy assessor. This will help them assess the property most accurately within the SAP calculation and can advise of any non-compliance earlier, prior to the lighting being installed.
Additionally on completion the developer will be required to evidence the lighting to ensure the "As Built" SAP calculation and EPC reflect that of the original design.
Whilst this is not a conclusive explanation of the lighting changes seen in SAP10 check out our full guide to the changes on the link below.
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