The drive to net zero and the desire to address the so-called performance gap between building design and building operation has catalysed a shift from prediction-based rating systems (such as BREEAM, EPC and the like) to rating systems that measure actual energy consumption and carbon emissions in use – NABERS UK being perhaps the best known example of these.

This has implications both for the way construction contracts are procured and the way commercial buildings are let and occupied. Developers wishing to target performance-based ratings on their projects should assemble the right team at an early stage to address the challenges and maximise their chances of success.

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