What Is an Energy Statement

What Is an Energy Statement and Why Is It Required?

If you are planning a new build or a major renovation, your local authority may request an Energy Statement as part of your planning application. However, many developers and homeowners are unsure what this document involves or why it matters.

This guide explains what an Energy Statement covers, when you need one, and how it supports a smooth and successful planning submission.

🔎 What Is an Energy Statement?

An Energy Statement (sometimes called an Energy Strategy) is a technical report submitted alongside a planning application. It demonstrates how your proposed development will meet national and local energy performance targets.

In simple terms, it outlines:

Predicted energy demand
Estimated carbon emissions
Measures to reduce energy use
Renewable energy integration
Compliance with planning policy

Most councils require Energy Statements to confirm compliance with sustainability targets and Approved Document L. Therefore, the report must include structured modelling rather than general environmental commentary.

For a complete overview, see our Energy Statements for Planning Applications service page.

🏗️ Why Do Planning Authorities Require an Energy Statement?

Planning authorities use Statements to ensure new developments align with sustainability objectives. Consequently, the document plays a critical role in the approval process.

Here’s why it matters.

1️⃣ ✅ It Demonstrates Planning Policy Compliance

Most Local Plans include energy performance requirements. For example:

The London Plan requires significant carbon emission reductions beyond Building Regulations.
Many councils expect renewable energy technologies or low-carbon heating systems.

An Energy Statement clearly shows how your design meets these targets. As a result, planning officers can assess compliance efficiently.

2️⃣ 🌍 It Supports the UK’s Net Zero Ambitions

Energy Statements encourage better design decisions. By analysing energy demand early, developers can improve insulation levels, reduce heat loss and integrate renewables effectively.

These improvements support the UK’s transition to net zero carbon by 2050. Therefore, the document contributes directly to national climate goals.

3️⃣ 📄 It Strengthens Your Planning Application

A clear and professionally prepared Statement reduces uncertainty. Consequently, planners can review your submission more quickly and confidently.

Without one, councils may:

Delay validation
Request additional information
Impose stricter conditions

By contrast, a structured Statement demonstrates proactive compliance and improves approval prospects.

🏠 When Do You Need an Energy Statement?

Although requirements vary between authorities, you will likely need an Energy Statement if:

You are developing a new residential building
You are constructing a commercial property
Your project qualifies as a major development (10+ dwellings or 1,000m²+ floor area)
You are building within a London borough
Your council enforces sustainability-focused policies

In many cases, the Energy Statement incorporates formal modelling such as:

SAP Calculations for residential dwellings
SBEM Calculations for commercial buildings
Overheating Assessments (Part O / TM59) for high-density or urban schemes

Because local policy varies, confirming requirements early helps avoid costly redesigns.

📊 What Does an Energy Statement Include?

A professional Energy Statement provides measurable, policy-aligned data rather than generic sustainability statements.

Typically, the report includes:

Section	Description
Development Summary	Site location, size, layout and design
Policy Review	Relevant local and national energy policies
Baseline Energy Demand	Predicted energy use and CO₂ emissions
Energy Efficiency Measures	U-values, insulation strategy and predicted airtightness performance (aligned with future Air Tightness Testing)
Renewables Strategy	Solar PV, heat pumps or other low-carbon technologies
Carbon Reduction Plan	Demonstration of policy compliance

We prepare our Statements using certified SAP or SBEM modelling to ensure technical accuracy and regulatory alignment.

👷 Who Should Prepare an Energy Statement?

Energy Statements require specialist knowledge of:

Local planning policy
Building Regulations
Carbon reduction strategies
Energy modelling software

Therefore, you should appoint a qualified assessor who understands both planning and compliance frameworks.

At Assessment Hive, we deliver structured, compliant Statements tailored to the specific requirements of councils across the UK.

🚀 How to Obtain a Compliant Energy Statement

Our process is simple and efficient.

1️⃣ Send us your architectural drawings and project details.
2️⃣ We complete the required energy modelling.
3️⃣ We prepare a policy-aligned Energy Statement.
4️⃣ You receive a compliant report ready for submission.

Because we operate remotely, we support projects nationwide with fast turnaround times.

✅ Summary

An Energy Statement does more than satisfy a planning requirement. Instead, it demonstrates that your development supports energy efficiency, carbon reduction and sustainable design.

By submitting a clear and technically accurate Statements early in the planning process, you reduce delays, improve approval confidence and align your project with long-term sustainability goals.