SBEM Calculations
& Non-Domestic EPCs.
Design-stage and as-built energy assessments for commercial buildings, with compliance reports and non-domestic Energy Performance Certificates. Based in Northern Ireland, EBSNI supports architects, M&E consultants and developers across the UK.
Offices, retail and other non-domestic uses
Design-stage and as-built assessments
Jurisdiction-specific compliance routes
Simplified Building Energy Model
What Are
SBEM Calculations?
SBEM stands for Simplified Building Energy Model. It is a calculation method used to assess the energy performance of non-domestic buildings, taking account of the building fabric, activity zones, lighting and building services.
The assessment uses standard operating assumptions to support the relevant energy compliance checks and EPC process. It is not a prediction of the occupier’s actual energy bills or a substitute for detailed building services design.
EBSNI coordinates the assessment from the proposed specification to the completed building. We confirm the applicable methodology, approved software route and required deliverables for the building’s location, complexity and stage.
Commercial Energy Requirements
Across the UK & Ireland.
The assessment route depends on the jurisdiction, project type and regulations that apply. New-build compliance calculations and an EPC for an existing commercial property serve different purposes; we establish what your project needs before starting.
Northern Ireland
Technical Booklet F2 provides guidance on conservation of fuel and power in buildings other than dwellings in Northern Ireland. SBEM supports the applicable non-domestic energy assessment.
For new commercial projects, we coordinate design-stage and as-built calculations. For existing buildings, the EPC requirement and survey scope are reviewed separately.
England & Wales
England and Wales have separate Approved Document L guidance for buildings other than dwellings. The relevant SBEM route supports the applicable non-domestic energy compliance assessment.
The regulatory edition and transitional provisions are checked for each project. An EPC for a sale or letting is a separate requirement from demonstrating compliance for construction work.
Scotland
Section 6 of the Scottish Non-Domestic Technical Handbook addresses energy performance. Calculations must use an assessment route and software accepted for Scotland.
The applicable handbook and building warrant arrangements determine the compliance submission. EPC production follows the Scottish registration requirements.
Republic of Ireland
Non-domestic buildings in the Republic of Ireland use NEAP, the Non-Domestic Energy Assessment Procedure, for BER assessments and relevant Part L compliance checks.
This is a separate Irish methodology and software route. Explore BER Assessments →
The applicable assessment route is confirmed against the building’s use, complexity, jurisdiction and relevant application or warrant date. A calculation report supports the submission; it does not replace other required construction, commissioning or compliance evidence.
Coordinate the Specification
Before Construction Begins.
The design-stage assessment checks the proposed commercial building against the applicable energy requirements. EBSNI reviews the architectural and M&E information together so the calculation reflects the intended fabric, lighting and services strategy.
Where the model identifies a shortfall, we discuss the contributing inputs with the project team and assess agreed specification revisions. SBEM supports compliance decisions; detailed system sizing and design remain with the relevant designers.
A Clear, Structured
Assessment Process.
From the first drawings to the final specification, we keep the calculation coordinated with your project. The scope and required outputs are agreed at the start, including whether the work is a compliance assessment, an EPC or both.
Confirm the Scope
We review the building’s location, use, complexity, programme and information to confirm the assessment route and required deliverables.
→Assess the Specification
We prepare the proposed building model and applicable design-stage checks, then discuss any shortfalls with the design team.
→Check the Evidence
Final drawings, specifications, relevant test results and commissioning records are reviewed before the completed building model is finalised.
→Issue the Documents
We prepare the agreed compliance outputs, including the BRUKL report where applicable, and complete the EPC lodgement where included in the scope.
✓Preparing Your
Project Information.
Coordinated architectural and M&E information reduces assumptions and repeat requests. Send the latest revisions and identify any specifications that are provisional, tenant-led or subject to change.
Common Questions.
When are SBEM calculations required?
SBEM is an assessment route for non-domestic energy compliance and EPCs. New commercial buildings commonly need design-stage and as-built calculations. Extensions, changes of use and work to existing buildings have their own requirements, so the scope and jurisdiction must be checked.
What is the difference between an SBEM calculation and an EPC?
SBEM is the calculation methodology. An EPC is a certificate produced through the applicable assessment and lodgement process. A construction compliance assessment may also require a BRUKL report; an EPC alone does not demonstrate that every Building Regulations requirement has been met.
Should the assessment start before construction?
Yes. A design-stage assessment helps identify energy compliance shortfalls while the specification can still be coordinated. It also establishes a basis for checking later changes and preparing the as-built assessment.
What happens if the proposed building does not comply?
We identify the inputs contributing to the shortfall and discuss possible specification revisions with the architectural and M&E team. Agreed changes are assessed in the model. The final result depends on the completed specification and evidence; no outcome is guaranteed in advance.
Can SBEM be used for every commercial building?
The appropriate calculation route depends on building complexity and the applicable rules. Some projects require an approved Dynamic Simulation Model rather than SBEM. We confirm suitability and scope before proceeding; a need for a different method does not mean the project can be assessed using SBEM regardless.
What is needed for the as-built assessment and final EPC?
We need the final drawings and fabric, lighting and services specifications, together with relevant testing, commissioning and installation evidence. Existing-building EPCs require a site survey to validate the assessment information. We confirm the evidence requirements and indicative programme at enquiry stage.
One Commercial Building.
Two Assessment Stages.
For a commercial development, the proposed fabric, lighting and services are assessed before construction. At completion, the model is updated using the final specification and supporting evidence, keeping the agreed compliance reports and EPC aligned with the building as delivered.
Discuss Your ProjectDiscuss Your Commercial Project
Send your drawings, building use, location and programme. Our team will confirm the appropriate assessment route. Part of the Newell Group.
