The Better Buildings Partnership has kicked-off the development of a UK Independent Design Review Panel who will be responsible for providing independent assessments of project going through the Design for Performance (DfP) process. The BBP is now seeking Expressions of Interest for energy efficiency experts interested in joining the Panel.

Independent Design Reviews are a key aspect of the Design for Performance approach. Each Independent Design Review is a substantive and highly skilled piece of work reviewing the building simulation and designs to identify risks and opportunities with respect to achievement the developments target operational rating. This process provides developers with assurances that their projects are on track to deliver on against their planned targets. With currently 11 major property developers all committed to implementing the the DfP approach on at least one office development, the UK Independent Design Review Panel is a critical component of the project that needs to be in place in advance of a scheme launch.

Those who meet the criteria and join the Panel will be recognised as some of the leading energy efficiency experts in the country and form a small select group who will be responsible for all Independent Design Reviews undertaken in the UK. Not only will they influence the designs of projects going through this process, but will also provide a valuable role in disseminating best practice throughout the industry. 

Coinciding with the formation of the IDR Panel, the BBP is pleased to welcome three new Delivery Partners to the DfP project: EVORA EDGE, NDY, and Twin & Earth. The continued expansion of the Delivery Partner network ensures that there will be sufficient expertise in the UK to support widespread adoption of the Design for Performance approach.

“EVORA EDGE is delighted to have been asked to become a BBP DfP delivery partner. A more intelligent use of building physics and energy models is needed if the sector is to overcome the challenge of achieving net zero carbon in commercial real estate assets. My own involvement with this initiative goes back some years now and it’s exciting to be part of it again at what is a key time for the sector.” Andrew Cooper, Director, EVORA EDGE.

"NDY is proud to have made the significant commitment in becoming a design partner with the BBP. Joining with our other Thought Leadership partners in developing solutions to the environmental impacts of our industry. Designing for Performance aligns well with NDY’s engineering ethos of #MakingSpacesWork and we are looking forward to contributing towards the common goals of this pioneering committee." Ragz Padayachi, Director – Specialty Group Leader, Norman Disney & Young

“Twin&Earth are delighted to be part of the Design for Performance network. As a business that specializes in energy performance, we are really excited about seeing how the rating scheme will deliver a step change in building energy use.” Matt Cotton, Director, Twin&Earth

EVORA EDGE is a building services engineering consultancy born out of the needs of sustainability. Possessing a wide range of strategic and technical skills, the firm specialises in translating sustainability strategies into the nuts and bolts of mechanical, electrical and public health services.  EDGE is currently responsible for ESG and MEP services in UK assets covering more than 418,000 m² (4,500,000 ft²).

Norman Disney & Young (NDY) is a global engineering consultancy. Their purpose is to “make spaces work” by engineering outstanding projects, mindful that every project matter; solving clients’ problems and serving them with utmost reliability, and engaging their people with meaningful, rewarding and inspiring opportunities. Sustainability is embedded into their company strategy and organisational structure and they are committed to delivering projects that contribute to a sustainable future.

Twin & Earth is an innovative energy and sustainability consultancy. As an independently owned business, we challenge the normal ways of approaching  sustainable design, providing radical and constructive solutions, resulting in exceptional sustainable outcomes. Twin&Earth work collaboratively with end-users, main contractors, architects, and M&E consultants as well as advising landlords and developers.