2023 Energy Monitoring Report

The 2023 Energy Monitoring Report sets out the outcomes secured in 2023 as a result of implementing the London Plan energy policies through the planning system.

An energy assessment is required for each planning application referable to the Mayor, explaining how the London Plan energy policies will be met within the development.

Development applicants are required to demonstrate how their proposals apply the following energy hierarchy:

• Be lean: use less energy.
• Be clean: supply energy efficiently.
• Be green: use renewable energy.
• Be seen: monitor, verify and report on energy performance.

The hierarchy provides the mechanism through which the carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission reduction targets of the London Plan are achieved. It also contributes to the implementation of strategic energy policies relating to decentralised networks and ensures opportunities for building occupants to receive efficient, secure and affordable energy.

Key highlights in 2023 from implementation of the London Plan energy policies include:

• Over 55 per cent saving in emissions from proposed new, referable developments when compared to the levels that would have been produced merely to meet national Building Regulations. This is a saving of over 32,000 tCO₂ per year.
• Energy efficiency measures alone (such as building fabric) resulted in savings of 8,552 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to adding loft insulation to over 13,000 homes, so new homes are warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
• A total of 92 per cent of developments to include solar PV, a cumulative area of around 70,000 m² ­approximately 14 Wembley football pitches, leading to approximately £21 million in new investment.  
• Over 28,000 dwellings (nine in ten new dwellings) are expected to connect to either communal heat networks or area-wide district heat networks
• Five developments are predicted to achieve net zero carbon through on-site measures alone.