If they achieve the aim of the credit, alternative weather file formats not listed in the manuals can be used instead of those referenced in the manual.
Format – current climate
The alternative weather files must include same variables as the specified weather files for each hour of the year e.g.:
– Dry bulb & wet bulb temperature,
– Wind speed & direction,
– Solar altitude & azimuth,
– Cloud cover etc.
For example, TMY (Typical Meteorological Year) is an accepted alternative format for BREEAM, meeting the requirements above.
The assessor or design team must verify this and ensure that meeting the BREEAM criteria does not become easier by using the alternative weather file.
Format – projected climate
These alternative files must be based on climate projections with equal or higher temperatures than those specified in the relevant criteria, setting an equally or more robust standard for overheating.
Where there are no suitable weather files available for projected climate change, use any one of the following:
To modify weather data for existing climates into the relevant future climate change scenarios required in the criteria.
Alternative location
Where the weather file for the nearest location for the project is not representative of the actual location’s climatic conditions, the project team can use the weather file from another nearby location which is more representative.
This can take account of the climatic influences of altitude, prevailing wind, proximity to climate-moderating features, or heat island effect.
19-May-2025 - Added example alternative format. Added links to future climate change resources. 18-Dec-2024 - Merged with KBCN1013. Scheme applicability updated.
