Two systems are used to measure energy efficiency in the ACT: Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) and Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS).
Building an energy-efficient home starts with smart design choices suited to the local climate. Smart choices include block and house orientation, dwelling size, window type and placement, building materials and insulation, shading, and cross-ventilation. Getting the right balance will allow natural sources of heating and cooling to deliver year-round comfort and lower energy bills over time.
How do these features impact the performance of your home? Two systems are used to measure energy efficiency in the ACT: Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) and Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). Both focus on energy efficiency but have different purposes. Let’s take a closer look below.
Energy Efficiency Rating (EER)
EER is used to measure the overall energy efficiency of existing homes in the ACT. The rating is capped at 6 stars, with 1 star being the least efficient and 6 stars the most efficient. The EER is a legal disclosure required to sell a home in the ACT.
Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS)
NatHERS provides a type of home energy rating for new building approvals required under the National Construction Code. Around 96% of new homes built in Australia use NatHERS software to calculate the expected energy needed to keep the home at a comfortable temperature. The rating is out of 10 stars.
In the ACT, new homes are required to meet a minimum 7-star NatHERS rating.
A 7 star NatHERS rating means the home meets the minimum standard for energy efficiency. NatHERS ratings below 7 stars offer limited to no protection against extreme temperatures. A 10 star home may eliminate the need for heating or cooling altogether.
NatHERS now rates the expected energy performance and greenhouse gas emission of the entire home, considering the impact of major appliances, solar panels, and batteries. This is called a ‘Whole of Home Performance’ rating and is on a scale of 0-100, The Whole of Home rating is an important tool to help you understand how much energy your home will use, helping you to compare options and budget for the future. The closer you can get to 100, the more efficient and comfortable your home will be. To receive a Whole of Home rating for your new home, you’ll need to get your rating completed by an accredited assessor.
Designing your home for energy efficiency
Work with your builder to create an energy-efficient home that meets the NatHERS requirements, saves you money, and reduces your environmental footprint.
To learn more about making your home more resilient, you can view the Your Resilient Home Guide here
Building in Jacka means you can claim an energy rebate worth $7,000 for building an energy-efficient, all-electric home. The eligibility guidelines are available for download here
You can download free architect-designed house plans from the NatHERS website that showcase sustainable design principles and construction techniques here.
