Daylight Factor Calculations

Supporting energy efficient and occupant-friendly designs

Maximising natural light for multiple real-world benefits

Daylight calculations are essential for assessing and optimising natural light within buildings, ensuring compliance with planning and enhancing the comfort and overall wellbeing of the property’s occupants. 

These assessments are crucial during the planning stage of new developments and major renovations. Not meeting daylighting requirements at this point can lead to complexities and potentially delay project approvals.

Our service provides clear, reliable assessments tailored to local planning requirements. By addressing issues early and offering actionable recommendations, we streamline the process, helping you avoid delays, costly reworks, and ultimately achieving a first-time approval.

Why do you need this service?

Meet planning
requirements

Ensure your development respects neighbouring rights to light while proving adequate natural light access for your own building.

Inform your architectural
choices

Having accurate daylight calculations to hand can help you achieve a smarter balance between aesthetics and functionality. 

Improve energy
efficiency

Reducing your reliance on artificial lighting will cut energy consumption and operational costs, resulting in a more sustainable build.  

Our Process

Arrange an initial consultation,

to help us understand your project requirements and planning targets.

Collect data,

including architectural plans and site-specific information.

Perform the simulation and analysis

to produce daylight calculations and glare assessments.

Prepare comprehensive reports,

including documentation for planning submissions.

Deliver ongoing support

and assist with any queries or adjustments during the approval process.

Why choose Energy Digest?

Using advanced daylight modelling techniques for accurate and reliable results, our team can provide a fully customised analysis of your property that meets the needs of your project, as well as the requirements of your local planning authority. 
We provide clear, actionable insights within our daylight factor calculation reports to help you meet even the most stringent planning submission standards. 

Plus, you’ll receive expert support throughout the entire planning and design process, meaning you’ll have more confidence in your work and can refine your designs to maximise the reach and intensity of the available natural light.

Fast turnaround time

To help you meet your own deadlines, we’ll issue your daylight calculations within 10 days. 

Collaborative expertise

We work closely with architects and developers to ensure cohesive strategies.

Tailored approach 

We always deliver customised recommendations based on your project-specific needs and goals.

Unrivalled support

Our service doesn’t end with the reports. We can provide ongoing support and expertise, from planning to completion.

Speak to our
experts today

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Daylight Calculations
FAQs

Daylight calculations are typically conducted using advanced modelling tools such as Design Builder or other simulation software. These tools evaluate factors like daylight factor, illuminance levels, and glare potential, providing precise insights to optimise natural light within building spaces.

No, daylight calculations are not mandatory for all developments. However, they are often required for planning approval in residential and commercial projects, particularly in densely built-up areas or when local authorities specify natural lighting standards. They are also valuable for projects targeting sustainability certifications.

Illuminance mapping evaluates the distribution of natural light within a space, highlighting areas with adequate, insufficient, or excessive lighting. This analysis informs design decisions, such as window placement, glazing type, and room layout, ensuring balanced and functional lighting throughout the building.

Yes, daylight factor calculations play a critical role in enhancing occupant wellbeing. Adequate natural light has been proven to improve mood, productivity, and overall health while reducing eye strain and fatigue. Properly lit spaces also create a more pleasant and inviting indoor environment.

Seasonal variations in natural light are addressed through simulation tools that account for changing sun angles, daylight hours, and weather conditions. These models provide comprehensive data to ensure the building design performs well under varying conditions, delivering consistent daylight access year-round.

What are the key components of our daylight calculation service?

Our team will carry out a daylight factor assessment to measure the ratio of indoor to outdoor illuminance under standard overcast conditions. Further illuminance mapping and glare control analysis will help us evaluate light distribution and identify any issues with excessive brightness or contrast. From there, we will provide full compliance reports that demonstrate your building’s adherence to planning and building standards for daylighting. 

Still unsure?

We offer free phone call and email support until you’re ready to proceed with us.
Access free support for your project now.

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