MEES C & New EPC Methodology
Posted on September 30th 2025
Incoming EPC reforms could increase the difficulty in achieving a ‘C’ rating, an expected requirement for both private and social rented homes from 2030. Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) are planned to be set at an EPC ‘C’ level from 2030. The Government prefers for this to be on a new fabric performance metric rather than the running cost measure …
BREEAM Excellent Limits Architecture
Posted on September 30th 2025
Planning policy in London typically requires larger commercial units to mandate reductions in space heating and cooling demand by achieving BREEAM Excellent. This requirement is demonstrated through the BREEAM ENE 01 credit and differs from other reported metrics at planning, such as CO2 reductions or energy use intensities (EUI). The ENE 01 performance requires a bespoke strategy, especially for units …
Don’t Overlook Solar Gains in Communal Corridors for Gateway 2
Posted on September 1st 2025
For Part O, including BSR Gateway 2 submissions, housing developers must consider the potential for solar gains in communal corridors – even where no communal heat distribution pipework exists. Solar gains can contribute to overheating risks, impacting occupant comfort and safety. However, in some cases, dynamic thermal modelling may not be necessary. Where corridors are fully enclosed with no glazing …
Government’s Heat Networks Consumer Protection Response leaves many unanswered questions
Posted on September 1st 2025
The Government response to the Consumer Protection consultation earlier this month has provided some clarity on rules that will be applied to heat network suppliers and operators from January 2026. However, a wide range of issues remain unresolved and subject to further consultation, extending the period of uncertainty for landlords and other operators. Some key points to consider: Guaranteed Standards …
Our Test of Energy and Water Saving Showers
Posted on September 1st 2025
New technologies such as Kelda’s air-powered shower could significantly reduce building hot water demand, which has remained stubbornly high despite advancing energy standards. Kelda showers use a patented technology to deliver water into a high-velocity air stream. This differs from widely available aerated showers. Benefits include: Flow rates of 4.5 l/min Significant improvement in SAP via Appendix Q (to both …
Securing BREEAM Excellent at Planning
Posted on September 1st 2025
Don’t miss out on achieving BREEAM Excellent, by dealing with these key items at planning stage. While there are many pathways to success, the most effective and cost-efficient strategies begin before planning consent is granted. By securing certain key credits early, project teams not only strengthen their BREEAM outcomes but also embed sustainable principles into the design of the development. …
The Release of BREEAM Version 7
Posted on August 5th 2025
BREEAM Version 7 (V7) has officially been announced, introducing a wide range of updates that align with the construction industry’s growing focus on decarbonisation, electrification, and whole life carbon accountability. The new standard is designed to ensure that BREEAM-certified projects remain at the forefront of environmental performance while supporting the transition toward net zero. The emphasis of this update has …
FHS & Panel Radiators
Posted on August 5th 2025
Homes subject to the incoming Future Homes Standard may still be able to specify electric panel heaters, but only for the provision of space heating and where other energy efficiency and generation measures have already been adopted. We await the publication of the final FHS in the autumn, however at the time of writing the following conclusions can be drawn: …
Lombard Square nominated at the edie Net Zero Awards
Posted on August 5th 2025
We are very pleased that Berkeley Homes’ Lombard Square development in Greenwich has been nominated for the edie 2025 Heat Decarbonisation Project of the Year Award. It is the only new residential development shortlisted in this category. Lombard Square revitalises 17 acres of derelict and inaccessible brownfield land into a place for a new community to grow and thrive, delivering …
When Developments Will Be Impacted by the Next Building Regulations
Posted on June 30th 2025
The Future Homes and Building Standards (FHS) are expected later this year, following recent Government updates. The charts below reflect the latest information and indicate whether your development must comply. Other than requirement for PV, none of the other requirements have been confirmed yet. The consultation also proposed to alter the definition of commencement, therefore tightening grandfathering rules. The proposal …