Introduction

The Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) calculates the energy used by non-domestic buildings*. It has been developed in response to the requirements of the European Union's Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD)^†.

The Building Regulations are the means by which the performance standards element of the EPBD is being implemented in the UK. SBEM has been developed by BRE, for DCLG, as the default calculation tool for checking compliance with Approved Document L2A[1] of the Building Regulations for England and Wales. Different legislation applies in Scotland and Northern Ireland, but SBEM plays a similar role to that for England and Wales. It will in future provide the Energy Performance Certificate also required by the EPBD.

DCLG's National Calculation Methodology (NCM) describes in generalised terms the framework within which accredited calculation procedures, including SBEM, are used to demonstrate compliance with building regulations, and enable a range of vendors to develop software for this purpose.

SBEM can also be used as the core of other software to support Part L and the EPBD. Further software interfaces are now available.

† Available at www.ncm.bre.co.uk.