CO2 emissions

There are a range of tools that can be used to model energy consumption and estimate carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from new buildings.

If energy modelling in SAP, SBEM or other software has been undertaken, please use these to complete this part of the checklist. Otherwise applicants can estimate predicted emissions from dwellings using a free online tool from the Energy Saving Trust (EST).

Take a look at relevant policies.

Carbon emission modelling via SAP and other tools

There are a range of tools that can be used to model energy consumption and estimate carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from new buildings. These can be carried out at the design and post-construction stage of a development at a cost.

SAP is the Government's Standard Assessment Procedure for Energy Rating of Dwellings. SAP 2010 is adopted by government as part of the UK national methodology for calculation of the energy performance of buildings. This includes an estimate of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions likely to arise from a dwelling. It is used to demonstrate compliance with building regulations for dwellings - Part L (England and Wales), Section 6 (Scotland) and Part F (Northern Ireland) - and to provide energy ratings for dwellings.

SBEM is a software tool developed by Building Research Establishment (BRE) that provides an analysis of a building's energy consumption for non domestic buildings. It can help to determine CO2 emission rates for new buildings in compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations (England and Wales).

These are used to generate Energy Performance Certificates for domestic and non-domestic buildings in construction, for sale or let.

Carbon compensation options

Where carbon emissions requirements are not achieved on site, planning applicants are expected to compensate for CO2 emissions from the proposed development by reducing carbon emissions in buildings in the vicinity of the development.  This action can be taken through two options:

Option 1: Improvements carried out by planning applicants/developers

The planning applicant/developer may choose to carry out one or a set of the following energy efficiency retrofit measures to housing in the vicinity of the development:

  • Loft insulation to 300 mm;

  • Cavity wall insulation

  • Draughtproofing;

  • Condensing boilers (including boiler itself);

  • Improved heating controls; and/or

  • Solar water heating or other active measures

The planning applicant/developer will be expected to provide evidence of implementation of agreed measures prior to occupation.

Option 2: Financial contribution

Planning applicants/developers may choose to make a financial contribution to the city council’s Section 106 account.

The council will then undertake improvements to existing homes in the city via its portfolio of home energy efficiency and renewable grants/discount schemes. In order to comply with Circular 05/2005 requirements, such grants/discount schemes will be available to all Brighton & Hove residents. The council's home energy web pages have further information about these grants.

These options are explained  in more detail in paragraphs 3.2.2 of SPD08 Annex [PDF 306kb].

Relevant policies

National policy

National Planning Policy Framework

Brighton & Hove Local Plan

SU2: Efficiency of development in the use of energy, water and materials [PDF 799kb]

SU16: Production of renewable energy [PDF 799kb]

Local Development Framework

SPD08: Sustainable Building Design

Other documents

Affordable Warmth: A Fuel poverty Strategy for residents of Brighton & Hove [PDF 117kb]