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Stars and Energy Rating

Meaning of Start in Energy Rating.
•Zero stars means the building shell does practically nothing to reduce the discomfort of hot or cold weather.
•A 5 star rating indicates good, but not outstanding, thermal performance.
•Occupants of a 10 star home are unlikely to need any artificial cooling or heating.



Zero stars means the building shell does practically nothing to reduce the discomfort of hot or cold weather.
A 5 star rating indicates good, but not outstanding, thermal performance.
Occupants of a 10 star home are unlikely to need any artificial cooling or heating.

Do l need Energy Rating?
Since July 2005, new houses and apartments in Victoria must be built to meet the energy efficiency and water management requirements of the 5 Star standard.
The 5 Star standard requires:
• 5 Star energy efficiency rating for the building fabric;
• Water efficient taps and fittings; plus
• Either a rainwater tank for toilet flushing, or a solar hot water system.

For most houses, achieving the 5 Star standard requires a few simple improvements to the standard design and construction of a home. This may be achieved through a wide range of options, such as increasing the level of insulation, better orientation and exterior shading, better seals and draught-proofing and the use of highperformance glazing.

The 5 Star standard is designed to be a flexible standard – it is performance-based rather than prescriptive. This means designers and builders can use their creativity on how they meet homeowners' requirements of being cost-effective, functional and aesthetic in designing and constructing 5 Star homes. The combination of energy and water saving features, of a 5 Star home, work together to ensure a high degree of occupancy comfort and reduced operating costs. For example, residents of new homes who install a rainwater tank use 20 per cent less reticulated drinking water. Their homes are also 50 per cent more energy efficient for heating and cooling than the average 2 Star dwelling built before the regulations took effect. The 5 Star standard is one of the many initiatives helping to make a positive difference for our environment – but there is always more that can be done

More Info - Building Commission

What you need to know about the 6 Star Standard - From 1 May 2011
On 1 May 2011, all new homes, home renovations, alterations and additions will need to comply with a 6 Star Standard when it comes into effect in the Building Code of Australia. This sees Victoria align with national energy efficiency measures.
The 6 Star Standard applies to the thermal performance of a home, renovation or addition; plus the installation of either a solar hot water system or a rainwater tank for toilet flushing.
Some simple building work, not requiring a building permit, will not be affected by the new regulations. However all new homes and building projects, involving home extensions and major renovations, will need to comply with 6 Star.
A 6 Star energy efficiency rating applies to your home's building envelope - its roof, walls, floor and windows.
6 Star requirements include efficiency standards for lighting but not plug in appliances.
Meeting 6 Star compliance is not difficult it's about good design, particularly at the planning stages. So talk to your building professional early to take advantage of the benefits, such as increased comfort, saving money on energy bills and making your home more resilient to climate change. Carefully selecting your site so you home's orientation takes advantage of solar energy can add up to 1 Star to the rating.
6 Star homes are projected to use 24 per cent less energy through heating and cooling compared to 5 Star homes. This will see Victorians saving a further $100 off their energy bills each year. This is only an average saving. Residents who use their energy features in their home wisely will save even more.
If you are intending to build, renovate or extend your home or re-locate an existing home after 1 May 2011, the design of your new home, extension or renovation will need to take account of the new 6 Star Standard. Your building designer will be able to advise you on how to best achieve this.
Ask your builder for design options that go beyond minimum regulatory requirements: it pays in the long run.

More Info - Building Commission