XA. Energy Usage in Buildings

XA1
In order to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases buildings, and extensions to buildings in respect of which plans and specifications are to be drawn and submitted in terms of the Act, having A1, A2, A3, A4, C1, C2, E1, E2, E3, E4, F1, F2, F3, G1, H1, H2, H3, H4 and H5 occupancies or building classifications in accordance with regulation A20, excluding garage and storage areas contained within such occupancies, shall be designed and constructed so that they -

1. are capable of using energy efficiently while fulfilling user needs in relation to vertical transport, if any, thermal comfort, lighting and hot water; or
   
   
2. have a building envelope and services which facilitate the efficient use of energy appropriate to their function and use, internal environment and geographical location.

Equipment and plant required for conducting the business of the occupant shall be excluded from these requirements.

XA2
At least 50% (volume fraction) of the annual average hot water heating requirement shall be provided by means other than electrical resistance heating including but not limited to solar heating, heat pumps, heat recovery from other systems or processes and renewable combustible fuel.

XA3
The requirements of sub-regulation XA1 shall be deemed to be satisfied when such building is designed and constructed in accordance with the following requirements:

1. has an orientation, shading, services and building envelope in accordance with SANS 10400 Part XA; or
   
   
2. is the subject of a rational design by a competent person, which demonstrates that the energy usage of such building is equivalent to or better than that which would have been achieved by compliance with the requirements of SANS 10400 XA, or
   
   
3. has a theoretical energy usage performance, determined using certified thermal calculation software, less than or equal to that of a reference building in accordance with SANS 10400 Part XA.