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There is more than one path to 7-star + whole of home compliance
Most builders are familiar with the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 energy efficiency requirements, and the changes they have brought to new home design. One common approach has been to adopt more all-electric options to help meet the Whole of Home energy requirements. While all-electric is one pathway, it is not the only option.
Where natural gas is available, it can still be included as part of a compliant home design. This gives builders greater ability to deliver homes that meet compliance requirements while reflecting the lifestyle preferences of their clients.
In practice, that means builders can offer clients greater choice when selecting the appliances and features that best suit their lifestyles.
Natural gas remains an available design option
For many homeowners, natural gas continues to be an important part of everyday living. Features such as a flame for cooking, plumbed outdoor BBQs and continuous flow hot water systems are often considered by homeowners when designing new homes, particularly those who enjoy cooking and entertaining.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, builders can continue to work with clients to achieve compliance while incorporating the features and appliances that matter most to them.
Natural gas cooking
In new detached homes and townhouses in Southeast Queensland, natural gas cooking appliances and plumbed BBQs can be incorporated into home designs, while still meeting 7-star and Whole of Home compliance requirements. This means homeowners do not necessarily need to compromise on preferred cooking or outdoor entertaining features to achieve compliance.
Solar can provide greater flexibility
As homeowners increasingly incorporate solar into their home designs, it may provide greater flexibility in accommodating the appliances and lifestyle options customers want.
In some cases, a suitably sized solar system will provide additional flexibility to incorporate natural gas appliances, such as natural gas hot water or ducted heating, and other lifestyle features such as a pool, while maintaining compliance with NCC energy efficiency requirements. For builders, solar can provide another design lever when balancing energy efficiency requirements with customer preferences.
More options for homeowners
A common misconception is that achieving 7-star and Whole of Home compliance requires an all-electric home. Compliance is based on the overall performance of the home rather than any single appliance or energy source. Where natural gas is available, it can continue to play a role alongside other energy options, allowing homeowners to incorporate the appliances and features that matter most to them while meeting current NCC requirements.