Energy-efficient homes

Building and design

Sustainable home design can save you money over the long term as well as reduce impact on the environment.

Smart and sustainable design includes:

• shading (e.g. eaves and verandahs)
• building materials that are lightweight and renewable
• insulation in ceilings and walls
• position of rooms and the house (on the block) taking advantage of breeze and natural light.

Energy.gov.au organises government information on energy, water, waste and travel efficiencies, so that every household can benefit from energy-saving and sustainability.

Features:

• hundreds of ways to save energy and conserve water, reduce waste and travel smarter
• up-to-date information on all government energy efficiency and sustainability rebates and assistance
• tailored guides for renters, home-base businesses, expecting parents, technology users, workplaces and more.
• two guides translated in 33 languages featuring practical no-cost actions.

The 'Your Home' website includes advice on how to add energy-saving features to your home and what to look for when you are house hunting.

The GreenSmart program from the Housing Industry Association has practical solutions for designing and building sustainable homes.

Building sustainable homes is the Brisbane City Council’s guide to good design principles.

The Sustainable Planning Act 2009 (Qld) manages development in Queensland.

Renovating

When renovating your home there are many items you can install to make it more energy efficient.

These include:

• solar or gas hot water systems
• water-efficient showers and toilets
• rainwater tanks (PDF, 1.2MB)
• energy-efficient appliances
• ceiling insulation and fans
• new lighting design.

Sustainable housing fact sheets are available for home buyers, renovators and builders.

Saving money at home

You can save money and help the environment by living in a sustainable home and reducing your:

• energy use
• water use
• waste.

Contact energy.gov.au for more information.

The consumer group CHOICE reviews energy-saving appliances. You can read articles online and add your own comments.

Do your own research and check your facts before making any decisions.

Renting

Almost a third of Australians rent their home. You can still have green habits even if you don’t own your home or flat.

See energy basics for householders for advice on how you can save money by reducing your energy use.

Have your home assessed

A home sustainability assessment will tell you where you can make the biggest energy and water savings.

Find rebates and assistance to help you live greener.