ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND GREENHOUSE GAS-EMISSION REDUCTION
- Mirvac encourages all homes to achieve a 7 Star NatHERS rating. This may be achieved through incorporation of the following elements where necessary.
- Maximising opportunities for cross ventilation and provide high level operable windows in multi-level homes to allow for heat removal.
- Shading designed to restrict solar access to the living spaces in summer, whilst allowing beneficial solar access in winter.
- Increased rating of the wall and ceiling insulation to the required specification
- Treated glazing or double glazing where necessary.
- Draft sealing (weather seals on external doors etc) where necessary.
- Sealed exhaust fans where necessary.
- In addition to achieving a 7 Star rating on the building fabric, Mirvac encourage house designs to include the following energy saving features:
- LED light fittings throughout the home.
- Exterior lighting fitted with motion sensors.
- Low energy use appliances (aim for energy ratings greater than 4 star).
- Energy efficient air conditioning systems (aim for a COP greater than 3).
- Standby ‘Green Switch’ or Smart home automation to reduce energy whilst the home is unoccupied.
- Solar photovoltaic electricity systems with battery storage.
WATER CONSERVATION AND REUSE
- To assist in achieving an overall reduction in household water usage, Mirvac recommends that homes incorporate the following measures:
- Rainwater tanks for toilet flushing and irrigation.
- Dishwasher and washing machines with a 4 Star or greater WELS rating.
- Tapware and toilets with a 4 Star or greater WELS rating.
- Showers with a 3 Star WELS rating.
- Purchasers are encouraged to consider water efficient landscape design, soil mix and plant selections, with a target of a minimum of 70% of planted species to be drought tolerant.