Don’t those words sound sweet, especially this time of year when most of us are fretting about our winter energy bills. If only Builder’s were thinking about energy efficient homes 100 years ago… or even 50 years ago… forget that, how about 20 years ago!Twas the year 2005 when the Australian Government made it mandatory that all new homes must meet a minimum 5 star rating under the NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) framework. This was a big ‘first step’ and was soon followed by ‘giant leap’ in 2010 when the requirement was increased to a 6 star minimum which is still the home energy efficiency requirement of today.As of 2022, while the Australian building industry awaits the final release of the new NCC (National Construction Code) home energy efficiency is on everyone’s lips. The draft version showed a great focus on energy-efficiency with a consideration to mandate a 7 star minimum standard. - It may not come into effect in 2022 but it will most certainly be implemented some time this decade! The energy efficiency of our homes in Australia is a hot button topic, and it’s easy to see why. It seems we’re currently in a perfect storm and in need of energy efficient homes more than ever before.The recent pandemic has seen people spending more time at home than ever before which results in more heating and cooling costs for families. On top of that we have fuel and resource shortages which are seeing increases in costs of gas and electricity. - Who knows where this is going to end! And the cherry on top, interest rates are at an all time low and set to rise for the first time in 11 years.The bottom line is Australian households MUST expect to pay more for running costs of their home, most of which can (and should) be mitigated with an energy efficient home. Energy efficient homes don’t blow budgets. - The principles are much simpler than most people think. Energy-efficiency comes down to quality over anything else, and like anything you get what you pay for.Therefore if you;

• Plan to live in your home for decades.
• Want to reduce the running costs of your home.
• Want a healthy and comfortable home that stays moderate all year round.
• Don’t short change yourself and ensure your home is energy efficient.

Stay tuned for some simple strategies to make your home a beautiful, comfortable and most of all, an energy-efficient home.