New Green building code said to be passed in December 2009

Micrographics attended a meeting with Christo Pheiffer, Building Control Officer for Nelson Mandela Bay, last week to discuss this pressing issue that is set to be gazetted in December 2009. The objective of the NMMM - Housing and Land department is that by February 2010 all plans to be passed by council will need to be accompanied by a building analysis document for approval. The SABS code for this new requirement is SANS 204 and is available for purchase at SABS offices or online. Below is a brief outline:

SANS 204 published by SABS

The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) has published the voluntary standard – SANS 204. It is hoped that this regulatory guideline will pave the way for official energy regulations in the future.

SANS 204 is aligned with international standards and should be used to set minimum requirements for the energy efficiency of new buildings. There numerous requirements to be met can be split into five parts. To meet the SANS 204 standard it is essential that the Energy Usage Intensity (kWh/m2.a) be signed off by competent persons, or alternative deemed-to-satisfy provisions. The document has been designed for future incorporation into the National Building Regulations.

It is hoped that the standard will translate into regulation for commercial and public sector buildings and also promote energy efficiency and sustainable building practices. From 10 to 60% energy savings can be expected as a result of implementing the standards.

SANS 204 deals with all building types. The building plans will need to be passed by local authorities, depending on whether the plans meet the considerations for energy efficiency set out in the standards.

The residential sector has lagged behind the mining and industrial sectors leaving much room for improvement in this area of the building industry.

See how Autodesk Ecotect Analysis can help you...

And visit www.autodesk.com/green

Contact Us for More Info...