Since the introduction of BENG (Nearly Energy-Neutral Buildings), the energy performance of new construction is no longer expressed with a single EPC figure but with three separate requirements: the energy demand (BENG 1), the primary fossil energy use (BENG 2) and the share of renewable energy (BENG 3).
Consequences for the design
BENG 1 steers strongly towards a good envelope: compact form, high insulation values, airtightness and limiting thermal bridges. BENG 2 and 3 steer towards systems and generation, such as a heat pump and solar panels. Together, the three requirements force integrated design: architecture and building services in tandem.
Calculating early pays off
By working with orientation, glazing ratio and insulation as early as the sketch stage, you avoid costly changes later. A good R-value for the wall, roof and floor is the foundation here — calculate it in good time.