Home energy Model to replace the SAP methodology
In December 2023, the UK Government unveiled consultations regarding the Home Energy Model, which includes the “Home Energy Model: Replacement for the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP)” and “Home Energy Model: Future Homes Standard assessment.” These consultations introduce a new calculation methodology that will replace the existing Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) and will be utilized to evaluate whether new homes meet the Future Homes Standard.
### What is the Home Energy Model?
The Home Energy Model is a government-designed calculation methodology aimed at assessing energy performance in homes across the UK. It will replace the current SAP methodology. This new model is critical as it underpins numerous government policies related to housing and climate initiatives. While still under development, the initial version is expected to be implemented in 2025 alongside the Future Homes Standard, with future expansions including the creation of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). The deadline for the related consultations has been extended to March 27, 2024, due to issues with the consultation version of the Home Energy Model.
### Understanding SAP
The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is the UK government’s method for estimating the energy performance of residential properties. It has two primary functions:
– To ensure compliance of new homes with Part L of the Building Regulations.
– To produce Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for all residences.
SAP is crucial for the development, implementation, and monitoring of government policies and is widely used across the building industry. Initially developed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE), SAP has evolved, with the current version, SAP 10.2, released in June 2022.
### A More Robust and Relevant Methodology?
The Home Energy Model initiative will have significant implications for the energy assessment sector. The project aims to modernize the methodology to align with the UK’s current political and technological context, marking a shift to a more resilient and accurate system. As stated in the consultation, this initiative represents “a new name for a new methodology.” The goal is to support the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions.
In contrast to the current SAP methodology, which was designed for basic on-site assessments, the Home Energy Model aims to provide a comprehensive structure that reflects modern conditions and accommodates various assumptions for differing policy needs. The consultation emphasizes the necessity for the methodology to be transparent and supportive of industry, policy, and research, while also recognizing buildings that are “net zero ready.”
### An Enhanced Methodology and Ecosystem
The Home Energy Model project offers the government a unique chance to reimagine SAP’s structure, ensuring clarity in presenting its various use cases. This will involve a significant overhaul of the methodology, incorporating features such as:
– Increased time resolution,
– Strong alignment with international standards,
– A modular design,
– Modeling capabilities for energy flexibility and smart technologies.
Accompanying this will be updates to the ecosystem, including:
– An open-source methodology,
– Modifications to the delivery model and software provision,
– A revised database of product features,
– Acknowledgment of new technologies,
– Use of “wrappers” to differentiate between various use cases.
The government anticipates that this updated structure will enhance flexibility, clarity, and accountability, enabling the use of standardized assumptions rather than being bound by existing methodologies. After the consultation period concludes, the government will consider reforms regarding the recognition of new technologies and the provision of product-specific performance data to energy assessors.
### Elmhurst’s Perspective
Elmhurst views the Home Energy Model as a significant improvement to the calculation methodology for energy performance assessments. Rather than merely replacing SAP, this initiative should be seen as an enhancement that supports the transition to net zero. The role of energy professionals, assessments, and Energy Performance Certificates is expected to grow in importance as we approach 2025.
To keep members informed, Elmhurst will publish a series of articles in the coming months exploring the Home Energy Model in detail, including its potential impact on Energy Performance Certificates and implementation timelines. Stay tuned for our next article in the upcoming weeks.
For more information and to access the government consultations, please click the following links:
– [Home Energy Model: Replacement for the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP)
– [Home Energy Model: Future Homes Standard Assessment]
(https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/home-energy-model-future-homes-standard-assessment
