Let’s be honest – planning applications are rarely simple, and when Energy Statements are part of the mix, things can get trickier. These documents are essential for proving that your development meets energy and/or sustainability standards, but they often come with tight timelines, specific requirements from local authorities, and a heap of technical detail.

So, what exactly are Energy Statements, why do we need them, and how can they be completed effectively without losing sleep (or budget)? Let’s dive in.

What Are Energy Statements?

In simple terms, an Energy Statement explains how your development will meet energy efficiency and carbon reduction targets. It’s your way of showing the local planning authority (LPA) that you’ve considered energy from every angle – how much you’ll need, where it’ll come from, and how you’ll minimise the development’s environmental impact.

Whether you’re planning a major development or a residential dwelling, your Energy Statement needs to address:

• Reducing energy demand through smart design (think insulation, airtightness, and efficient systems).
• Incorporating renewable energy like solar panels or heat pumps.
• Proving compliance with specific LPA policies, such as the London Plan, which requires a 35% reduction or other local authorities that might require a 20% reduction in onsite carbon emissions beyond Building Regulations.

Why Do We Need Energy Statements?

You might be thinking, “Why all this paperwork? Isn’t it enough to meet Building Regulations?” Well, not quite in the eyes of councils. Local authorities use Energy Statements to ensure new developments contribute to broader sustainability goals. Especially in places like London, where policies are laser-focused on reducing carbon emissions, these documents prove your project aligns with local and national priorities.

But here’s the kicker: every borough has its own quirks. One might prioritise renewable integration, while another focuses on district heating. That’s why it’s so important to know what each authority is looking for. (And this is where experience comes in handy!)

The Energy Statement Journey

Let’s break this down into a few key stages:

1. Starting with the Basics

At the very beginning, it’s about asking the right questions:

• What are the LPA’s expectations for energy and carbon reduction?
• Is your site in a Heat Network Priority Area, and what does that mean for your heating strategy?
• Are stakeholders aligned on how ambitious you need to be?

Answering these questions early helps avoid surprises later.

2. Crunching the Numbers

Once we’ve scoped out the requirements, it’s time for some hard data:

• Baseline emissions modelling to understand your starting point.
• Exploring how to meet reduction targets using building fabric improvements, efficient systems, and renewables.

Here’s where it gets interesting – how do you balance the need for ambitious energy savings with budget constraints? This is often the tricky bit, especially with tight timelines.

3. Writing the Statement

A good Energy Statement is clear, concise, and speaks the LPA’s language. It needs to:

• Follow the Energy Hierarchy (Be Lean, Be Clean, Be Green).
• Address overheating risks if required (shout-out to Part O).
• Provide evidence that your approach is practical and compliant.

The Realities of First-Time Approval

Let’s face it: no one wants their planning application rejected. But Energy Statements are one of those areas where things can go wrong if you’re not careful. Misunderstanding local requirements or failing to demonstrate compliance could lead to back-and-forth with planners, delaying the entire process.

One thing to ask yourself is, have you explained everything in a way that leaves no room for doubt? Sometimes the smallest details – like missing data on renewable system outputs – can derail an otherwise solid submission.

The Nuances No One Tells You

1. Carbon Offset Costs
2. In many boroughs, you’ll need to pay into a carbon offset fund for any emissions you can’t reduce onsite. But how much? Rates vary widely, and if you’re not prepared for this extra cost, it could throw off your budget.
3. Energy Strategy vs. Sustainability Statement
   1. It’s easy to confuse these documents. While they overlap, each serves a distinct purpose. Understanding how they work together can save you time and frustration during planning.
4. The Balance Between Compliance and Design Freedom
   1. Meeting energy targets is crucial, but it’s equally important not to compromise your design intent. This is where working with professionals who get the bigger picture makes all the difference.

Why Working with Energy Digest Makes Sense

At Energy Digest, we’ve been in the trenches with planning applications across the UK. We know what borough planners expect and how to deliver Energy Statements that get the job done – on time and without breaking the budget.

Here’s how we help:

• Tailored Strategies: No cookie-cutter solutions here. Every report is tailored to your project’s needs and LPA requirements.
• Proven Expertise: We’ve handled everything from small residential developments to large commercial projects.
• Clear Communication: We write reports that are easy to understand—no jargon, no fluff.

Get a Quote

For a tailored quote specific to your project, Get A Quote

Energy Statements might feel like just another planning box to tick, but they’re actually an opportunity to showcase how your project leads on sustainability and efficiency. By tackling them early and with the right expertise, you can avoid headaches, manage costs, and secure first-time approval.

Planning timelines can be tight, but that doesn’t mean your Energy Statement has to be rushed. Let’s work together to make your next project a success.