Building services consultancy Roberts & Partners is offering an emissions calculation service using 3D computer modelling.
The service aims to assist designers faced with incorporating Part L2 (buildings other than dwellings) of the Building Regulations, which came into force on 1 April this year, into their buildings.

There are three methods outlined in Part L2 which can be used to calculate emissions levels: carbon emissions method, elemental method, and whole building method.

Roberts & Partners believes that the carbon emissions method will be most in demand from architects. This particular method is also thought to provide a greater level of detail about building performance.

According to Roberts & Partners, dynamic computer simulations can predict total energy consumption and carbon emissions across a typical weather year.

The approach also offers flexibility in facade design, versus trade-offs by low energy services performance potential, resulting in overall savings in construction costs. Estimates have suggested that the cost of construction to achieve Part L2 could be as much as 5%.

Source

Building Sustainable Design