A Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) calculation, is a government defined process in accordance with Part L2 of the Building Regulations, introduced in 2007. It is the calculation of the energy performance of a particular commercial building in comparison to the energy performance of a ‘notional’ building, to determine whether the performance of that building complies with the requirements of Part L2 of the Building Regulations.

There are two Stages associated with the SBEM; firstly, the Design Stage Assessment and, secondly, the As-Built Stage Assessment. Both stages will normally be required by Building Control. The ‘As-Built’ Stage assessment generates the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).