What Is the Bath & North East Somerset Council Energy Summary Tool?
The Bath & North East Somerset (B&NES) Council Energy Summary Tool is a key part of the council’s response to the climate emergency and its planning policies for sustainable development. This tool ensures that new buildings meet higher environmental and energy efficiency standards, supporting the council’s ambition to reduce carbon emissions and move towards net zero.
Unlike standard SAP calculations used to demonstrate compliance with Building Regulations, the B&NES Energy Summary Tool introduces stricter sustainability requirements. It focuses on minimising energy demand, improving overall building performance, and encouraging the use of renewable and low-carbon technologies.
What Does the Energy Summary Tool Require?
The Bath & North East Somerset Energy Summary Tool goes beyond typical building regulations. It often requires:
Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems
Very good airtightness standards (low air permeability)
Increased insulation and high-performance building fabric
Consideration of renewable energy sources such as solar PV or heat pumps
Demonstration of reduced operational carbon emissions
These requirements aim to ensure new developments in Bath & North East Somerset are energy-efficient, future-ready, and aligned with long-term climate goals.
How Can Up Energy Help with the Energy Summary Tool Compliance?
At Up Energy, we specialise in supporting developers, architects, and self-builders through the Bath & North East Somerset Energy Summary Tool process.
With extensive experience across a wide range of building types, we can help you achieve compliance by:
Reviewing your plans and suggesting practical improvements
Providing expert SAP calculations tailored to the B&NES Energy Summary Tool
Recommending compliant ventilation, airtightness, and renewable energy solutions
We work with a varied mixture of clients, from developers seeking planning for multi-plot schemes, to architect led, single unit developments.
Want to learn more or get a quote? Contact Up Energy today — we’ll help you meet Bath & North East Somerset’s toughest energy standards.