CSIRO senior experimental scientist Michael Ambrose is working on tools for mandatory reporting on home energy efficiency, developing a cost-effective model for assessing a home’s energy efficiency. He aims to make energy audits more affordable, aiming for a price point that would encourage governments to mandate the requirement. Quick fix solutions such as ceiling insulation, solar panels, roller shutters, and heavy curtains can save around two tonnes of emissions annually, equivalent to 11 plane trips between Sydney and Melbourne. However, making a house ‘climate ready’ with measures like insulating wall and floor cavities in double brick homes and installing double-glazed windows can be more costly and complex. Ambrose envisions a future where each home has a fixed battery and can use electric vehicles to power properties, creating a smart grid for interconnectivity.
Strategic Property Group managing director Trent Fleskens believes that more information on energy efficiency leads to better decision-making and transparency for buyers, similar to purchasing appliances or cars with safety and efficiency ratings. He thinks that mandatory disclosure of energy efficiency ratings can motivate developers and home builders to improve their homes’ efficiency to meet market expectations. Research conducted in 2022 for Energy Consumers Australia and Renew showed that 66% of people support mandatory energy efficiency disclosure, indicating a growing interest in this area. In the ACT, there has been a requirement for mandatory disclosure of the energy performance of existing residential properties offered for sale since 1999, setting a precedent for other regions to follow.
Ambrose and his team are exploring alternative methodologies for home energy audits, tying them in with other activities like property valuations when selling a home to make the process more streamlined and cost-effective. They are also looking into innovative ways to integrate renewable energy sources like solar panels and electric vehicles to create a more sustainable and interconnected energy system. By focusing on cost-effective solutions and leveraging technological advancements, they aim to make residential energy efficiency more accessible and practical for homeowners. This approach aligns with the broader goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a more sustainable energy future.
The growing support for mandatory energy efficiency disclosure indicates a shifting mindset towards prioritizing sustainable and energy-efficient homes among buyers and policymakers. By mandating energy audits and disclosure, governments can drive investment in energy-efficient measures and incentivize homeowners to adopt sustainable practices. This can lead to reduced energy consumption, lower utility bills, and decreased greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. As awareness and demand for energy-efficient homes continue to grow, stakeholders across the housing industry will need to adapt and innovate to meet these changing expectations and regulatory requirements.
Efforts to make homes more energy-efficient, such as installing solar panels and battery storage systems, can not only decrease environmental impact but also reduce energy costs for homeowners in the long run. By investing in energy-efficient upgrades, homeowners can increase the value of their properties, attract environmentally conscious buyers, and enjoy savings on their utility bills. As technology advances and becomes more affordable, the adoption of renewable energy solutions in residential buildings is expected to increase, leading to a more sustainable and resilient housing sector. With the support of government policies and incentives, the transition to energy-efficient homes can accelerate, benefiting both homeowners and the environment.
In conclusion, the push for mandatory energy efficiency reporting in residential properties reflects a growing recognition of the importance of sustainability in the housing sector. By making energy audits more accessible and cost-effective, stakeholders like Michael Ambrose and Trent Fleskens are paving the way for a more energy-efficient future. With increased transparency and information on energy performance, buyers can make informed decisions, developers can meet market demand for efficient homes, and policymakers can drive progress towards a greener housing sector. As the transition to energy-efficient homes gains momentum, the benefits of reduced energy consumption, lower emissions, and cost savings will become increasingly evident, creating a more sustainable and resilient housing market for the future.
