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New houses and units built in Queensland now need to meet the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 Modern Homes standards for residential energy efficiency.
This is the first time in more than a decade that the NCC’s residential energy efficiency standards have been changed, and these updates will help to enhance the comfort of new homes for Queenslanders.
New homes and units will need a:
- 7-star rating (out of 10) for the building shell (roof, walls, windows and floors). Energy efficiency features that will help achieve a higher star rating may include optimal house orientation, better insulation and window design, ceiling fans and a lighter-coloured roof.
- Whole of Home energy budget that promotes energy efficient appliances and equipment including air-conditioners, hot water systems and artificial lighting, as well as any on-site renewable energy such as solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. New houses and townhouses will need to achieve a Whole of Home rating of 60 (out of 100) and new units, a rating of 50 (out of 100).
While Queensland will align with the NCC 2022 residential energy efficiency standards, the optional one-star credit towards the building shell for inclusion of an outdoor living area will be extended statewide for both houses and units to take advantage of Queensland’s outdoor lifestyle and climate.
However, the optional credit for installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) energy system ceased on 30 April 2024, as it is now counted in the Whole of Home energy rating.
These changes are being implemented through the Queensland Development Code 4.1 – Sustainable Buildings, and build on the Modern Homes accessibility standards that came into effect on 1 October 2023.
Licensees are reminded about transitional arrangements under section 37 of the Building Act 1975 which enables a building certifier, in certain circumstances, to apply the previous building assessment provisions. For more details, view the Guideline for applying transitional arrangements when building requirements change.
More information on the implementation of the Modern Homes energy efficiency standards is available on the Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works website and Business Queensland website.
Image credits: pexels.com
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