6 and 7 Star Energy Ratings

What are 6 and 7 Star Energy Ratings

A 6 and 7 Star Energy Ratings is a measure of the amount of energy that it will take to heat and cool a home to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year. To rate a home, the design is modelled with Home Energy Rating Software by a sustainability consultant accredited under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). Everything including the floors, walls, ceilings, roofs and windows are modelled to allow a detailed understanding of what parts of the building will be comfortable and what parts will be reliant on high amounts of heating and cooling.

Prior to May 2024, it was a National requirement that a rating of 6 stars out of 10 were met. From May 2024, and with the introduction of the 2022 National Construction Code, a requirement for a rating of 7 stars out of 10 will be introduced. Please note, there are variations between States and we recommend getting in touch with the Green Rate team to confirm which star rating is required.

Why and when do I need a 6 or 7 Star Energy Ratings

A 6 or 7 Star Energy Rating is required for one of two reasons:

NSW: required to be completed as part of a Basix Certificate at the development application stage
All other states: required to be completed as part of the application for a Building Permit to be issued. As per the National Construction Code, a Building Permit cannot be issued until an assessment of the energy efficiency of the building has been undertaken.

What else can 6 or 7 Star Energy Ratings be called?

6 or 7 Star Energy Ratings can be called a number of things such as:

How do I get a 6 or 7 Star Energy Rating completed

In all states except NSW, once the Building Permit drawings have been prepared and shared, the Green Rate Team will review and provide a detailed quotation. Once approved, the Green Rate Team will begin the assessment utilizing the following steps:

Review of provided plans
Modelling of the dwelling using Home Energy Rating Software
Preliminary Energy Rating report issued to the client for review and comment
Report finalisation

In NSW, once the DA drawings have been prepared and shared, the Green Rate Team will review and provide a detailed quotation. Once approved, the Green Rate Team will begin the assessment utilizing the following steps:

Review of provided plans
Modelling of the dwelling using Home Energy Rating Software
Preliminary Energy Rating report issued to the client for review and comment
Report finalisation

Why does getting a good quality Energy Rating matter

Obtaining a good quality energy rating it critical for ensuring appropriate insulation and glazing specifications are recommended.

This can have significant ramifications for the feasibility of the proposed design and to ensure that there are no nasty surprises during the build. In addition to this, a good quality analysis can ensure a comfortable home year round which minimises the use of artificial heating and cooling.