Building Performance Standards (Building Regulations)

Building regulations (BFS 1993:57) aim to ensure that newly constructed buildings meeting essential technical requirements as well as environmental goals, such as that of a "Good built environment." Regarding energy use, building regulations require new construction to limit energy use through low heat losses, low cooling requirements, and efficient heating, cooling and electricity usage. The building's energy use is defined as the energy supplied over the course of an average year for heating, cooling, hot water, the operation of installations such as pumps and fans, as well as other electricity needs other than those for operations or household appliances. The building regulations underwent a major revision in January 2012 (BBR19) and updated in 2016. Sweden is divided into four climate zones, with somewhat differing requirements for energy use. Figures here refer to climate zone III, which includes Stockholm and Gothenburg. Buildings for housing purposes heated by other means than electricity are allowed a maximum energy use of 90 kWh/m2 (if heated by electricity, 55 kWh/m2). For commercial space the corresponding figures are 70 and 50, respectively). In 2015 a separate climate zone was established which encompasses the southernmost parts of the country with lower maximum values for energy use.

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