Energy Efficiency and ESD Consultancy
Our highly qualified energy efficiency professionals can assist in a variety of energy certification requirements from single dwellings to large commercial buildings. We can provide advice through the design process to achieve to assist in achieving results that maximise your projects thermal performance and save you money.
Our services at a glance:
BASIX Assessments
BASIX, also known as the Building Sustainability Index, was introduced in 2004 by the NSW Government. Its purpose, to encourage sustainable residential developments in New South Wales. Promoting the construction of resilient dwellings while simultaneously reducing greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption, contributing to a more sustainable environment.
BASIX requirements are a part of the development application process in NSW. In order to obtain approval, the consent authority, typically local council, necessitates certified evidence that the proposed development plans comply with the BASIX requirements.
These requirements are applicable to the following:
All new residential dwellings
Any alterations or additions made to existing dwellings that cost $50,000 or more
Swimming pools with a capacity of 40,000 litres or more
By implementing BASIX, homeowners can experience financial benefits. The energy-efficient designs and materials required by the BASIX certificate result in reduced energy consumption, leading to cost savings over time. The emphasis on sustainable practices ensures that the homes built under BASIX guidelines contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for NSW.
NatHERS Thermal Comfort Assessments
The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme, or NatHERS, is a performance based rating system introduced into the Australian market to mandate a minimum thermal comfort performance for new housing, based on the National Construction Code.
The 10 star rating system provides an estimate of a buildings heating and cooling needs. The higher the rating, the less energy is required to maintain a comfortable temperature and a healthy indoor environment.
A NatHERS certificate is required for:
All new developments with multiple dwellings
New single dwellings, when the dwellings design is more complex and needs to be assessed more thoroughly than the BASIX thermal tool
Through the NatHERS assessment pathway, we accurately assess energy efficiency of your development design and identify areas for improvement.
BCA Part J Commerial Building Assessments
BCA Part J Commercial Building Assessment refers to the section of the Building Code of Australia (BCA) that specifically addresses energy efficiency in commercial buildings.
This assessment focuses on various aspects such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), artificial lighting, and hot water systems to ensure that commercial buildings meet the required energy performance standards.
The BCA Part J assessment aims to promote sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by setting out minimum energy efficiency requirements for commercial buildings. By conducting this assessment, building owners and developers can identify areas for improvement, implement energy-saving measures, and ultimately create more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective commercial spaces.
Environmentally Sustainable Development Assessments
ESD reports (Environmentally Sustainable Development Assessments) play a pivotal role in evaluating the potential impact of projects on the environment. By taking factors such as land usage, resource consumption, waste generation, and carbon emissions into consideration, throughout construction and operation of the site to ensure long term sustainable performance of the site and impacts on the community and environment.
The primary goal of a ESD report is to identify areas for improvement, facilitating informed decision-making processes by providing data-driven recommendations. With accurate and comprehensive evaluations, stakeholders can make more responsible choices that align with sustainable goals and practices. By integrating sustainability considerations into various aspects of project planning, implementation, and management, we can achieve long-term sustainable performance of the site and impacts on the community and environment.
NABERS
The NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System) review process and rating tool, that measures the environmental performance of buildings. These include energy, water and waste efficiency and the indoor environment quality.
A NABERS assessment provides a reliable, and comparable sustainability measurement for building sectors, such as hotels, shopping centres, apartments, offices and more.
By providing transparent and reliable ratings on a six-star scale, NABERS encourages building owners and occupants to prioritise sustainable practices and make data-driven decisions to reduce their environmental footprint. With increasing awareness and a growing focus on sustainability, NABERS plays a crucial role in fostering a greener and more energy-efficient future for Australia's built landscape.
GREEN STAR
The Green Star rating system provides a comprehensive framework to assess various aspects of a building’s sustainability. From energy efficiency and water conservation to materials selection and indoor environmental quality, this rating system sets the bar high for environmentally responsible construction practices.
What sets the Green Star rating apart is its ability to drive innovation. It not only recognises environmentally friendly buildings but also encourages developers, architects, and engineers to push the boundaries of sustainable design and construction. By awarding stars based on a building's performance, it motivates stakeholders to adopt new technologies, employ renewable energy sources, and implement efficient waste management systems.
A Green Star rating not only benefits the environment but also provides multiple advantages to building owners and occupants. Buildings with higher ratings command higher property values and attract tenants who prioritise sustainability. Furthermore, lower energy consumption and reduced operational costs lead to substantial savings in the long run.
