London Plan 2021 is the strictest planning policy in the UK. The Plan sets out policies for housing, transport, and the economy.
The London Plan sets high standards for sustainable development. Its Energy Assessment Guidance outlines how buildings must reduce carbon emissions and improve energy performance. At KJ Tait, we help clients meet these requirements through clear strategies and expert modelling.
The Energy Assessment Guidance follows the Energy Hierarchy:
New commercial buildings must reduce emissions by 15% compared to Part L 2021. Residential buildings must achieve a 10% reduction. These targets require early collaboration between architects and energy modellers.
Developers must check for heat network connections using the London Heat Mapping Tool. If no network is available, they must allow space for future connection.
Technologies like heat pumps and solar PV help achieve a 35% improvement over Part L. Any remaining emissions must be offset through borough-specific carbon offset funds, usually priced at £95/tonne.
The London Plan requires dynamic thermal modelling using CIBSE TM52 and TM59. Designers must test buildings against future climate scenarios to reduce overheating risk.
Referable schemes must submit a Whole Life Carbon Assessment using RICS guidance. A Circular Economy Statement is also required to support reuse and design flexibility. Many boroughs now request these for non-referable projects.
The Be Seen policy requires TM54 modelling at design and post-construction stages. Developers must upload operational data to the GLA portal for five years
The London Plan and its Energy Assessment Guidance shape sustainable building design across London. KJ Tait supports clients with expert advice, modelling, and compliance strategies to meet these goals.
Updated:
9 February 2026 — This article was revised to include the latest guidance.
The London Plan sets high standards for sustainable development. Its Energy Assessment Guidance outlines how buildings must reduce carbon emissions and improve energy performance. At KJ Tait, we help clients meet these requirements through clear strategies and expert modelling.
KJ Tait’s London Plan Compliance Guide covering SI 2, SI 3, SI 7, Whole Life Carbon and Be Seen requirements.
The Energy Assessment Guidance follows the Energy Hierarchy:
New commercial buildings must reduce emissions by 15% compared to Part L 2021. Residential buildings must achieve a 10% reduction. These targets require early collaboration between architects and energy modellers.
Developers must check for heat network connections using the London Heat Mapping Tool. If no network is available, they must allow space for future connection.
Technologies like heat pumps and solar PV help achieve a 35% improvement over Part L. Any remaining emissions must be offset through borough-specific carbon offset funds, usually priced at £95/tonne.
The London Plan requires dynamic thermal modelling using CIBSE TM52 and TM59. Designers must test buildings against future climate scenarios to reduce overheating risk.
Referable schemes must submit a Whole Life Carbon Assessment using RICS guidance. A Circular Economy Statement is also required to support reuse and design flexibility. Many boroughs now request these for non-referable projects.
The Be Seen policy requires TM54 modelling at design and post-construction stages. Developers must upload operational data to the GLA portal for five years
The London Plan and its Energy Assessment Guidance shape sustainable building design across London. KJ Tait supports clients with expert advice, modelling, and compliance strategies to meet these goals.
