With just days to go before a review of the National Construction Code on 26 August 2022, a group of prominent Australian architects have joined the call to lift minimum energy efficiency ratings for new homes from 6 to 7 Stars.

They join an alliance of more than 100 property, community, health and environmental organisations, including the Australian Institute of Architects, in advocating to Commonwealth, state and territory building and housing ministers to confirm amendments to the National Construction Code (NCC).

The proposed changes would increase the minimum energy efficiency requirements for new homes, reducing heating and cooling costs by 25%, while solar and all-electric appliances and households can reduce energy bills by 75%.

City of Sydney Councillor HY William Chan, who is an architect and executive of Climate Emergency Australia, says Australia risked falling further behind other countries and international standards as it has been over a decade since energy standards for new homes were last improved.

“Australians are already facing the brunt of the rental and housing affordability crisis, and now with the added pressure of inflation. It’s time to catch up with the rest of the world by designing and building sustainable homes that reduce carbon emissions, while also lowering the cost of living,” says Chan.

“Raising energy standards means everyone living in new housing stock, including renters and social housing residents, benefit from improved thermal comfort and a healthier built environment. These proposed amendments will go a long way in helping address energy poverty and inequality in our local communities,” he says.

Australian Architects Declare spokesperson Caroline Pidcock says higher standards will reduce emissions by 15 million tonnes to 2030 and will accelerate broader transition to renewables by reducing domestic energy demand at peak times.

“The benefits of zero emissions housing are so great on many levels, from health and comfort to affordability and emissions. It’s the most cost effective and socially beneficial way for us to create the future we need,” says Pidcock.

Australian Institute of Architects National President Shannon Battisson says with climate change among the biggest crises facing our communities, urgent action was required.

“These practical improvements to Australia’s building code will support national efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Raising the standard of energy efficiency in Australian homes builds a stronger legacy for residents, communities, and the environment,” says Battisson.

Analysis by Renew shows that the lifting of energy efficiency standards will lower Australian emissions by up to 78 million tonnes by 2050, reduce deaths during extremely cold or hot weather, and lower the cost of grid upgrades by up to $12.6 billion by 2050.

The proposal is the result of a 3-year collaborative process led by the Australian Building Codes Board and would build on the Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings which was agreed to by all Commonwealth, state and territory energy ministers in 2019.

Image: City of Sydney Councillor HY William Chan (left) and Australian Architects Declare spokesperson Caroline Pidcock (right) / Supplied.

Branko Miletic

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