The SAP Energy Rating (2005)

What SAP considers

The SAP Energy Rating (2005).

SAP considers the following:

• Thermal insulation of building fabric
• Ventilation characteristics of dwellings
• Efficiency and control of heating system(s)
• Solar gains through glazed openings
• Fuel used for space and water heating
• Internal lighting
• Use of renewable energy technologies   

Solar gain has to be factored in without acting to the detriment of lighting levels (because if cutting out sunlight encouraged users to leave lights on this might increase the use of electric lighting and hence CO2 emissions). 

A minimum recommended use of fluorescent lights and low energy light fittings are suggested and prioritised over halogen lamps.