IES releases free eco-rating tool for SketchUp and Revit

Integrated Environmental Solutions is launching an interface that will enable users to analyse the environmental performance of designs generated using Google SketchUp and Autodesk’s Revit.

Called VE-SBEM, designers can bring SketchUp and Revit 3D models into IES without any re-input of data. The integration should make it easier to undertake Building Regulations compliance calculations and EPC checks throughout the design process. The models are assessed using SBEM methodology within the IES VE Compliance module.

David McEwan UK director for IES says: “It’s incredibly exciting to be able to offer the UK market the first completely free and more intuitive 3D model route to SBEM. Professionals no longer have to struggle with the laborious iSBEM interface; a free 3D graphical route linked to key design tools such as SketchUp is now available!”

John Bacus, product manager for Google SketchUp added: “Compliance and EPC calculations have become a necessity for our users in the UK. By making it possible to perform these calculations directly from Google SketchUp, IES is saving time and greatly simplifying the process...and doing it all for free!”

VE-SBEM is suitable for use across the whole of the UK – England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland – allowing users to undertake Part L2, Part F and Section 6 compliance calculations as well as create EPCs for non-dwellings via SBEM.