News and Media
08 February 2010
Economic Stimulus Plan fast tracks six-star energy efficient homes
Defence Housing Australia (DHA) has taken the initiative to start building six-star energy efficient homes for Defence families.
DHA's six-star construction initiative is in advance of the Federal Government's plan, through the Council of Australian Government (COAG), to introduce a six-star energy rating in the Building Code of Australia by May 2010.
The construction of DHA's first six-star home is currently underway in Toowoomba, Queensland. A further 250 contracts have already been signed and 50 houses are under construction to deliver energy efficient homes in other Defence Housing locations around the country.
Mr Derek Volker, Chairman of the DHA Board, said "DHA was keen to commit to this new standard as quickly as possible. We are very pleased to already have a number of six star energy rated houses underway and more are planned for the future."
For Mr Darryl Meehan, General Manager of Prospero Homes in Queensland, overlooking the construction of the first six-star energy efficient house for DHA has created new opportunities.
"It has been less of a challenge and more of an education process for myself and the builders," said Mr Meehan.
"We are looking at the sustainability of every house we build, and the six-star energy rating implemented by DHA goes hand in glove with the expectations of the public," he said.
For DHA the construction of these homes has been made easier through Nation Building- Economic Stimulus Plan (NB-ESP) with the additional funding enabling exploration into long term energy efficient options.
For Warren Ahrens, National General Manager of PBS Homes in Canberra, building to a six star energy rating has been a progression of the business, they have been involved in designing and building six star and seven star homes for several years now.
"As progressive and responsible builders we must also become considerate of the design and orientation of homes which is imperative to ensure that six star ratings are not a heavily expensive exercise" Mr Ahrens said.
In building these homes DHA and their contractors have considered the orientation of the home to maximise air-flow and sunlight; an increased level of insulation in ceilings, walls and suspended floors; the use of wide eaves and awnings for shade; and tinted glazing on the windows.
For Mr Ahrens this is a positive direction for the building industry.
"The building industry needs to be moving in this direction for a sustainable future," Mr Ahrens said. "If the design and orientation of each house is managed well, the increase in capital cost is negligible to the whole of life savings achieved with energy consumption costs. This is a positive direction to reducing the cost of living for the occupiers."
Six-star energy efficient Defence houses are planned to be built around Australia in six States and Territories.
The construction of all properties is expected to be completed this year.
For more information
Natalie Cooper (DHA) 0421 040 098