Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is an Energy Statement Services and why does a planning application need one?
An Energy Statement Services is a planning-stage document that shows how a proposed development will reduce its carbon emissions and energy use, usually following the be lean, be clean, be green energy hierarchy set out in local and London Plan policy. Councils use it to check that a scheme meets carbon reduction targets before permission is granted, not after construction starts. It covers fabric performance, heating strategy, renewable technology and, on larger schemes, overheating risk.

Q2. What information do you need from an architect to prepare an Energy Statement?
The core requirements are scaled floor plans, elevations, and a schedule of accommodation showing floor areas and unit numbers. Alongside that, an indication of the intended fabric specification, heating and hot water strategy, and any renewable technology being considered helps produce accurate carbon and energy figures. Site orientation and any existing energy infrastructure are also useful where relevant.

Q3. How is the required carbon reduction percentage actually calculated?
Carbon savings are worked out against a notional or baseline building that just meets Part L of the Building Regulations, using SAP or SBEM-based modelling. The energy hierarchy is applied in stages, reducing demand through fabric and design first, then improving system efficiency, then adding renewables, and the resulting saving is expressed as a percentage against that baseline.

Q4. Does an Energy Statement replace the SAP or SBEM calculation needed for Building Control?
No, they serve different purposes and are usually prepared at different stages. The Energy Statement is a planning document based on indicative specifications, aimed at demonstrating policy compliance to secure permission. The SAP or SBEM calculation is a Building Regulations document, produced once the design is finalised, used to obtain a completion certificate and Energy Performance Certificate.

Q5. What happens if a council requests amendments to a submitted Energy Statement?
This is a normal part of the planning process, and it usually means a planning officer wants further detail or a higher carbon saving on a specific point, such as renewable provision or overheating mitigation. A+E Consultancy reviews the officer’s comments, updates the modelling or narrative as needed, and resubmits a revised statement addressing each point directly.

Because the original calculations and assumptions are kept on file, amendments are generally quick to turn around rather than starting from scratch. Responding promptly and specifically to the comments raised is usually the fastest route back to a positive decision.