On Thursday 2nd October, the Government published its long-awaited response to the consultation on the Home Energy Model (HEM) – the replacement for the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) in assessing the energy performance of homes.
This is a landmark step for the energy efficiency sector. HEM will underpin:
- Building Regulations compliance (Part L / Future Homes Standard)
- Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in the future
- Broader policy decisions linked to energy efficiency and Net Zero
The Government has confirmed that the first version of HEM will launch in 2025, operating in parallel with SAP to allow the industry time to adapt.
Why the Home Energy Model Matters
HEM is not just an update to SAP – it’s a transformation in how we model home energy performance:
- Energy performance will be simulated at half-hourly intervals, better reflecting real household energy use.
- It will account for low-carbon technologies, storage, and smart controls.
- A cloud-based platform (Energy Calculation as a Service – ECaaS) will provide consistent access.
- The open-source codebase will improve transparency and industry collaboration.
This will make HEM a more accurate and flexible tool for designing, building, and retrofitting homes fit for a Net Zero future.
Quidos’ Role in Delivering HEM
We’re proud to confirm that Quidos, in partnership with Sustenic, has been selected by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ) to develop and maintain the HEM core engine – the technical heart of the new methodology.
This means Quidos will:
- Help design, build, and maintain the software engine that powers HEM calculations.
- Apply our expertise in energy assessment, accreditation, training, and software to ensure HEM works for industry and policymakers alike.
- Support our members and partners with insight, tools, and training throughout the transition from SAP to HEM.
What’s Next
In the months ahead, consultation versions of the HEM engine will be released for industry feedback. Quidos will also begin preparing our services and training to ensure a smooth transition for assessors, developers, and organisations.
We are proud to be at the centre of this critical transformation and look forward to working with our members, partners, and the wider sector to deliver a model that supports the UK’s Net Zero ambitions.
Read the full government response here: Home Energy Model – Summary of Responses and Government Response
Read more about our involvement here: Sustenic and Quidos to Develop and Maintain the Home Energy Model Core Engine
