Building Regulations 2000 energy efficiency requirements
This article will look at the requirements of the Building Regulations 2000 as applicable in England and Wales. Energy efficiency is dealt with by requirements of Regulations 4A, 17C and 17D and Part L of Schedule 1 of the Building Regulations.
Regulation 4A relates to thermal elements and so would not be applicable to lighting. Regulation 17C refers to new buildings and 17D refers to consequential improvements to the energy performance of building work to an existing building (with a total useful floor area over 1000 m2). Part L of Schedule 1 has requirements for conservation of fuel and power and is reproduced in Figure 1.
Fixed internal or external lighting systems are included within the scope of a ‘fixed building service’ as referred to in L1b and L1c of Schedule 1. The type of building work where energy efficient lighting requirements would apply is the provision of a new dwelling, an extension to an existing dwelling or material change of use of a building to a dwelling and the replacement of a lighting system as part of rewiring works. For domestic premises there are two approved documents that provide guidance on complying with Part L, L1A Conservation of fuel and power in new dwellings and L1B Conservation of fuel and power in existing dwellings. Included are specifications for the provision of energy efficiency fixed internal and external lighting and is summarized in Figure 2.
To view the full article (including Figures) from the IET's Wiring Matters Winter 2009, click on the attachment below...