Sustainable Building Design

At DARe-me, we integrate sustainable practices into our work and can help you incorporate sustainable measures into your project.

Our Specialist Capabilities Include –
Targeted expertise for complex challenges.

Low Carbon & Renewable Energy Specialisms

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, we specialise in the design and delivery of low energy, sustainable building systems that reduce operational carbon, improve efficiency, and enhance long-term performance. Our multidisciplinary expertise spans advanced technologies, passive strategies, and data-driven simulations — ensuring optimal energy outcomes from concept to completion.

Our specialist capabilities include:

Combined Heat & Power (CHP) systems – for high-efficiency, on-site energy generation
Heat Pump System Design – including air source, ground source, and water source solutions
Tri-generation (CCHP) Plants – integrating cooling, heating and power in a single efficient system
PSALI Lighting Design – delivering energy-efficient lighting tailored to occupancy and task needs
Daylighting Optimisation – reducing artificial lighting through intelligent design and natural light modelling
Natural, Hybrid & Displacement Ventilation Systems – improving indoor air quality with low energy use
Passive Solar Design Strategies – capturing free solar gain to reduce heating demand
Solar Thermal Systems (Solar Hot Water) – generating renewable hot water for domestic and commercial use
Photovoltaic (PV) Systems – integrating solar power into building envelopes for clean electricity generation
Building-Integrated Wind Turbines – harnessing on-site wind energy for supplementary power
Rainwater Harvesting & Greywater Recycling – reducing potable water demand and supporting sustainability targets
Drone Surveys & Aerial Inspections – supporting asset management of wind turbines and solar farms with high-resolution, real-time data

Early-Stage Low Energy Design Modelling

We actively encourage early engagement in the design process, enabling us to model and optimise low energy strategies from the outset. By simulating building performance at concept stage, we can help clients identify and implement cost-effective, carbon-reducing solutions before construction begins — delivering greater certainty, better building performance, and long-term operational savings.

In-House Building Performance Simulation

Our team has in-house expertise in advanced building simulation for low energy and sustainable building design. We offer a full range of modelling services tailored to your project’s needs, including:

Dynamic Thermal Simulation (DTS)
Daylight Modelling & Analysis
Airflow & Ventilation Modelling
Solar Shading & Overheating Assessments
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) and Occupant Comfort Modelling

Nudge Theory –
Subtle design & Small interventions - Big environmental impact.

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, we embrace the principles of nudge theory — using subtle, well-considered design choices to influence positive behaviour and long-term sustainability outcomes within the built environment.

Originating in behavioural science and economics, nudge theory promotes non-intrusive, non-regulatory interventions that encourage individuals and organisations to make smarter, more sustainable decisions — without limiting choice or relying on enforcement.

In our M&E and sustainable design approach, we integrate these principles to:

Encourage energy-efficient behaviour through intuitive system controls and user-friendly interfaces
Promote natural ventilation and daylight use by optimising building orientation and layout
Support low-carbon choices via visual prompts, metering, and feedback mechanisms
Design smart lighting, heating, and ventilation systems that respond subtly to occupancy and usage patterns
Incorporate passive design features that promote comfort without user intervention

Designing for Real-World Impact

At DARe-me, we understand that meaningful environmental change doesn’t always come from bold, disruptive moves — often, it's the accumulation of small, strategic nudges that drives lasting progress.

By embedding behavioural insight into our mechanical and electrical building services designs, we help create spaces that support smarter energy use, reduce emissions, and improve user experience — all without compromising functionality or comfort.

When you choose DARe-me, you're not just meeting compliance — you're taking a deliberate step toward a more sustainable future, one thoughtful design decision at a time.

Let’s make that nudge count.

Get in touch to explore how behavioural design can shape more efficient, user-friendly, and low-carbon buildings.

Our Holistic Approach to Sustainable Design –
Delivering balance, performance, and long-term value.

Integrated thinking from concept to completion.

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, we take a truly collaborative, whole-building approach to sustainable M&E design. From the very beginning, we work closely with architects, contractors, and fellow consultants to deliver well-coordinated, high-performance building services solutions — aligned with the client’s brief, budget, and environmental goals.

We understand that successful design relies on the seamless integration of mechanical, electrical, public health (MEP), and environmental engineering with the project’s architectural vision and functional needs. That’s why we remain embedded in the design team throughout the project lifecycle — not only as engineers, but as strategic partners.

End-to-End Design Integration - Our involvement spans every key project stage, including:

Design Brief Development – translating client ambitions into clear, deliverable engineering strategies
Design Development – integrating low-energy and sustainable solutions into architectural planning
Contract Documentation – producing coordinated M&E specifications that support buildability and compliance
Detailed Works Specifications – ensuring clarity, performance, and cost control during procurement and construction
Rapid Analysis & Simulation Techniques – used early and often to assess system performance, energy use, daylighting, comfort, and environmental impact
Performance Tracking – benchmarking design progress against agreed targets to optimise decision-making, prioritise resources, and ensure alignment with project goals

Collaboration That Adds Value

We believe that truly sustainable buildings are born from collaborative design thinking — where architecture and engineering enhance one another. Our proactive approach ensures issues are resolved early, opportunities are maximised, and every element of the design contributes meaningfully to the building’s performance.

By integrating M&E, sustainability, and cost-awareness from day one, we help our clients achieve smarter, greener, and more resilient buildings — without compromise.

SAP Calculations & EPCs –
Our insight driving energy performance.

Ensuring compliance, efficiency, and low-carbon design for residential developments.

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, we provide fully accredited SAP Calculations and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) to support compliance with the Building Regulations (Part L) for all types of commercial and residential buildings — including new-build houses and flats, conversions, and extensions.

SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) is the UK Government’s approved methodology for assessing the energy performance of domestic dwellings. It evaluates predicted energy consumption, CO₂ emissions, space and water heating demands, and fuel costs, and is a legal requirement for:

New dwellings (both individual units and large developments)
Change of use or conversions (e.g. commercial to residential, barns to homes)
Extensions with significant glazing areas or heating changes
As-built EPCs for sale or rental

Why Choose DARe-me for Your SAP & EPC Requirements?

Our SAP services go beyond compliance — we help design teams make smarter, more energy-efficient decisions from the outset. Whether you're a self-builder, developer, architect, or contractor, our expert consultants will:

Model your project at design stage to identify risks early and advise on improvement options
Support planning applications and Building Control approval with accurate, up-to-date documentation
Recommend practical enhancements to improve SAP ratings and reduce carbon emissions
Ensure fast turnaround times and clear communication throughout
Deliver compliant, high-quality EPCs at completion for handover, sale, or occupancy

Integrated Sustainability Advice where needed, we can integrate SAP analysis with broader sustainability strategies — such as:

Fabric-first design optimisation
Low-carbon heating systems (e.g., heat pumps, MVHR)
Renewable energy integration (solar PV, solar thermal)
Thermal bridging assessments and PSI-value calculations
Overheating risk analysis (TM59)
Part O and Part L coordination

Our in-house experience in building performance simulation and low-energy residential design means we can offer guidance that considers the bigger picture — helping your project meet not only regulatory targets but also long-term energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and occupant comfort goals.

SBEM Calculations –
Our clarity in compliance and energy performance.

Precision, compliance, and clarity in commercial energy performance.

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, we provide expert SBEM Calculations and non-domestic Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) to help clients meet the energy efficiency requirements of Part L of the Building Regulations for all non-residential buildings — including new builds, refurbishments, extensions, and fit-outs.

SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) is the UK government’s approved methodology for assessing the energy performance of commercial and public buildings. It evaluates how a building will consume energy for heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and hot water — and is a statutory requirement for obtaining Building Warrant / Building Control approval and issuing EPCs upon project completion.

What Does SBEM Assess?

SBEM calculates a building's predicted monthly energy consumption and CO₂ emissions based on key design and construction factors, including:

Building orientation, size and geometry
Construction materials and U-values
HVAC systems and controls
Lighting systems, zoning, and efficiency
Renewable technologies (e.g., PV, solar thermal, heat pumps)
Air permeability and ventilation strategy

These outputs are then used to produce a BRUKL Report and EPC, both required for demonstrating regulatory compliance.

Our SBEM Services Include:

Design-stage SBEM Calculations to support Building Warrant / Planning approval
As-built SBEM Calculations & EPCs upon completion
BRUKL reports for submission to Building Control
Advice on design improvements to achieve pass ratings and better energy performance
Coordination with architects and M&E teams to reduce rework and streamline approvals

Energy Management Consultancy –
Our strategy for smarter, lower-carbon buildings.

Energy Management Consultancy - Strategic guidance for smarter, lower-carbon buildings.

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, we offer tailored Energy Management Consultancy services designed to help organisations optimise energy performance, reduce operating costs, and lower carbon emissions — while ensuring compliance with evolving UK energy regulations and sustainability frameworks.

We work with clients across the residential, commercial, industrial, public and hospitality sectors to create intelligent, data-led energy strategies that deliver measurable results — whether you’re managing a single building or a multi-site portfolio.

Why Energy Management Matters

Rising energy costs, Net Zero targets, and tightening regulatory frameworks mean that proactive energy management is no longer optional — it's essential. Our consultancy services empower you to:

Reduce energy waste and operational expenditure
Identify carbon-saving opportunities across systems and infrastructure
Benchmark and track building performance over time
Comply with government policy (such as SECR, ESOS, MEES, and Net Zero goals)
Improve EPC ratings and long-term asset value
Future-proof investments through energy resilience and system optimisation

Our Energy Management Services Include:

Energy audits and assessments for buildings and estates
Carbon footprint analysis and emissions reporting
Energy performance benchmarking and KPI development
Metering strategies and sub-metering plans
Smart monitoring and data interpretation
Advice on low-carbon technologies (e.g., heat pumps, CHP, solar PV, BMS optimisation)
Energy procurement support and tariff analysis
Net Zero planning and decarbonisation roadmaps
Integration with BREEAM, LEED, and ESG frameworks

We also support Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) compliance and work with clients to develop energy-saving action plans that are practical, cost-effective, and tailored to your specific building use and operational profile.

TM44 Air Conditioning Inspections –
Ensuring efficiency, compliance, and comfort.

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, we deliver TM44 Air Conditioning Inspections in full compliance with UK regulatory requirements — helping building owners and occupiers meet their legal obligations while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, sustainability, and cost savings.

Required by the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations (EPBR), TM44 inspections are mandatory for any building with a combined cooling output over 12kW. Our accredited energy assessors carry out detailed evaluations of your air conditioning systems to ensure compliance, reduce environmental impact, and improve system performance.

Why TM44 Inspections Matter

Legal requirement: Buildings with qualifying air conditioning systems must have a valid TM44 report at least every 5 years.
Cost-saving insights: Identify inefficiencies and reduce energy consumption.
Environmental responsibility: Cut carbon emissions and align with ESG and Net Zero goals.
Improved system performance: Enhance occupant comfort and equipment longevity.
Avoid fines and enforcement: Non-compliance may lead to penalties of up to £300 per unit.

What’s Included in a TM44 Inspection?

Full visual inspection of all qualifying air conditioning equipment
Assessment of system size, efficiency, controls, maintenance, and suitability
Review of documentation, usage patterns, and operational settings
Recommendations for cost-effective improvements and system optimisation
A clear, concise TM44 Inspection Report compliant with CIBSE guidance
Issuance of an Air Conditioning Inspection Certificate (lodged with the central register)

Who Needs a TM44 Inspection?

Office buildings
Retail and commercial premises
Public sector buildings
Hotels and leisure facilities
Educational and healthcare establishments