B2.6.1 Optimising solar gain

To optimise passive solar gain development proposals should look to maximise the number of buildings on site that are orientated 30 degrees either side of south to gain the full benefit of passive solar gain In addition, south-facing façades for living spaces should be prioritised (where possible) to maximise passive solar heating in winter.

Development proposals should also consider building massing to optimise solar exposure, ensuring taller buildings are located to the north of shorter buildings and open spaces to avoid creating negative impacts such as over-shadowing.

Development proposals should consider the risk of overheating, in accordance with Buildings Regulations Approved Document Part O. Measures should be taken to limit excess solar gains in the summer and remove heat from within the building where necessary, prioritising passive measures such as shading, glazing design (for example window g-value) and building design (for example, shading from building projections or landscaping).

Compliance with overheating limits should be demonstrated by using the approved overheating assessment methods such as the Simplified Method (Route A) or the Dynamic Thermal Modelling (Route B/TM59) as listed in Part O of the approved building regulations document.