New Research Reveals Energy Efficiency Gains Offset by Larger Home Designs
Australia’s trend of designing larger homes is undermining potential energy efficiency gains, according to recent research. The study, analyzing over 580,000 new homes designed between 2018 and 2022, indicates that increased floor areas contribute to rising energy demands, contradicting global climate change mitigation efforts.
Policy Misalignment with Energy Efficiency Goals
Despite over two decades of building energy regulations emphasizing efficiency, the study highlights a disconnect between policy focus and the desired outcome. Energy efficiency, measured as energy required to heat or cool one square meter of floorspace, has not translated into reduced energy needs for heating and cooling in individual homes or the overall new home sector.
Research Findings and Regional Variances
Examining dwelling approval data and energy efficiency ratings, the study found that a home designed in 2022 had a 7.6% larger conditioned floor area than one in 2018. Alarmingly, it predicted a 10% increase in energy requirements for heating and cooling over the same period. Regional variances showed a 5.6% national increase, ranging from a 21% fall in the Northern Territory to a 34% rise in South Australia.
Energy Efficiency Policy Challenges
The study questions the efficacy of the NatHERS scheme, where 97.5% of new homes meeting state-based minimum energy efficiency regulations still experienced increased energy demands. Despite the implementation of the 6-star minimum energy rating, the study reveals a lack of uniformity in achieving this standard across states.
Call for Comprehensive Policy Overhaul
As Australia’s housing demand rises, the research urges a reevaluation of home energy policy, considering factors beyond efficiency. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive overhaul involving building regulations, urban planning, and social policies to align with net-zero goals.
In conclusion, the study highlights the critical role of reducing energy requirements in achieving net-zero targets, emphasizing the importance of encouraging smaller home designs to enhance overall energy efficiency.
Source：miragenews.com
