What are Energy Efficiency Reports and when are they Required?
What is an Energy Efficiency Report?
An Energy Efficiency Report is an assessment of the energy efficiency of a new home. The report will ensure that your new home meets the minimum requirements for thermal comfort.
The report will detail minimum insulation and glazing requirements, or a star rating (NatHERS 6 Stars). The rating will calculate how much energy will used to maintain a comfortable level in the house.
The report will demonstrate compliance with the energy efficiency requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC) and must be submitted to your local council or shire to obtain building approval or a building permit. New homes and renovations must meet the energy efficiency requirements of the NCC.
What Does An Energy Efficiency Report Cost?
The price varies depending on the size, complexity and requirements of the project, but most residential projects fall within the price range of $290-$690 excl GST. Larger projects are POA.
Why Do You Need An Energy Rating Assessment?
The energy efficiency requirements were introduced into the Building Code of Australia in 2003. New residential and commercial buildings, and alterations and additions must meet the energy requirements of the National Construction Code in order to obtain building approval or a building permit.
The aim of the energy efficiency provisions is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting sustainable homes. An efficient home will require less heating in winter and less air conditioning in summer.
Once an assessment is commenced, we can compare the compliance options to ensure the design meets the energy efficiency requirements of the NCC and provide advice on possible changes.
Do You Need An Energy Efficiency Report?
All new homes and most renovations/extensions in Perth and Western Australia will require an Energy Efficiency Report. All reports need to demonstrate compliance with the National Construction Code BCA Volume 2. Always check with an assessor or your local authority.
What Are The Compliance Options For An Energy Efficiency Report?
The energy efficiency Performance Requirement for a house can be met through deemed-to-satisfy (DTS) provisions (Part H6D2 of the BCA) or the use of a performance solution (Part A2G2).
Deemed-to-Satisfy Options:
Energy Rating (in accordance with Specification 42) such as a NatHERS Assessment
Using the elemental provisions in accordance with clause 3.12.0(a)(ii) of the NCC & Part 13 of the ABCB Housing Provisions Standard.
Performance Solution
A performance solution demonstrates compliance with the Performance Requirements of the NCC by the following assessment methods:
Evidence of Suitability in accordance with NCC Part A5
Verification Method, which for H6P1includes H6V2VURB
Other Verification Method that shows compliance with the Performance Requirements to the satisfaction of the certifying building surveyor
Expert Judgement and
Comparison with the Deemed-To-Satsify (DTS) provisions
WA Alterations and Additions Protocol for Energy Efficiency
The WA government has developed the WA Alterations and Additions Protocol. The protocol provides guidance for demonstrating compliance for existing homes. The protocol is a performance solution which can be used to demonstrate that additions and renovations are compliant. It is a commonly used option for home owners and building practitioners in Perth and Western Australia.
What Is An Efficient Energy Rating?
The energy efficiency of a new home is commonly assessed is using NatHERS software. An energy assessor will use the building plans (typically the architectural drawings) to model the home using the energy rating software.
A star rating on a scale from 0 to 10 is generated.
In Australia the current housing standard is a 6 star energy rating.
10 star home is a passive home that uses no energy for heating or cooling year round.
0 star home will provide no insulation from outdoor temperatures and will be uncomfortable for the occupants.
6 star home indicates a good level of comfort and energy use.
Please contact our office to book an Energy Efficency Report or for further information.
Further links
A guide to environmentally sustainable homes
Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme
Tips on reducing water wastage
Shows the benefits of sustainable housing to the community through demonstration and inspiration
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