The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) has recently made a significant leap, raising its national standard to a minimum of 7 stars. This is a monumental move towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient Australia. But while the construction industry grapples with this shift, Green Homes Australia proudly stands a step ahead, having delivered homes well above the 7-star rating for over 15 years.
What is a NatHERS Rating?
The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme, commonly known as NatHERS, is an Australia-wide framework designed to assess the potential thermal performance of residential buildings. The rating primarily focuses on the home’s ability to maintain a comfortable internal temperature without the heavy reliance on artificial heating or cooling.
How is the Rating Determined?
Using sophisticated software, accredited assessors estimate the energy required to heat and cool a home throughout the year. The software considers various factors, including:
- The home’s design and orientation
- Construction materials used
- Insulation effectiveness
- Window size and placement
- Local climate conditions
NatHERS and the National Construction Code 2022 (NCC 2022)
The National Construction Code 2022 (NCC 2022) has ushered in a new era of building regulations in Australia. One of the significant changes in the NCC 2022 is its emphasis on elevating energy efficiency standards for residential buildings.
As part of the changes, there’s an increased focus on ensuring new builds meet higher energy performance levels. NatHERS ratings, being a trusted and recognised measure of thermal performance, play a pivotal role in this. With the NCC 2022 in effect, builders and architects are more inclined to design homes that not only meet but exceed the minimum energy efficiency requirements, aiming for higher NatHERS star ratings.
These modifications to the NCC signify a collective move towards a more sustainable future, pushing the construction industry to prioritise eco-friendly practices and designs. For homeowners, this means the potential for reduced energy costs, increased home comfort, and a smaller carbon footprint.
A NatHERS rating is not just a star-based score; it’s a reflection of a home’s energy efficiency and a testament to the industry’s commitment to sustainability, further emphasised by the enhancements in the NCC 2022.
Understanding the 7-Star NatHERS Rating
As we’ve outlined above, the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a performance-based rating system that assesses the energy efficiency of homes in Australia. While the standard Australian home might achieve a rating of 3 to 4 stars, Green Homes Australia has raised the bar, consistently delivering homes that boast well over a 7-star rating.
The Implications of a 7-Star Energy Efficient Home
- Reduced Energy Bills: A 7-star rating translates to significant savings on energy bills. Efficient design and superior insulation ensure that homeowners enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures year-round, minimising the need for artificial heating or cooling.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: High-rated energy-efficient homes play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, safeguarding our planet for future generations.
- Enhanced Comfort: Beyond the eco-benefits, these homes provide optimal living conditions. Whether it’s the sweltering heat of summer or the chilly winds of winter, 7-star homes ensure consistent indoor comfort.
The Green Homes Difference: Building for the Future
Long before the national conversation turned to higher energy ratings, Green Homes Australia was already leading the pack. For over a decade and a half, we’ve been champions of eco-friendly building practices, creating homes that often exceed even the most stringent standards:
- Sustainable Materials: We source building materials that are not only eco-friendly but also have outstanding insulating properties.
- Innovative Design: Our architectural designs are crafted to maximise natural light and ventilation, reducing the dependence on artificial energy sources.
- Solar Integrations: In line with our commitment, many of our homes come equipped with solar solutions, further reducing energy consumption.
While the construction industry adjusts to the recent change, Green Homes Australia is already envisioning the next frontier of sustainable housing. Our commitment remains undeterred: to craft homes that stand the test of time, both in quality and sustainability.
For homeowners, this means a guarantee of living in a space that’s kind to the environment and their wallets. With over 15 years of surpassing standards, Green Homes Australia assures you of a future-proof house, leading the charge in sustainability and innovation.
Are you a registered builder and want to avoid the hassles of the future changes that will effect your business while delivering the highest quality results for your clients? Get in touch today and let’s have a chat about joining the Green Homes team so you can start building 9 star homes in your area today without the fuss.