PROPERTY Residential
Australian home owners facing a triple whammy of rising charges for electricity, water and gas will be in for a major shock this summer when for the first time they face power bills which will include the cost of running air conditioners with the higher electricity costs.
Air conditioning is one of the most expensive appliances to run in the home and business during Australia's hot summer. Between 2005 and 2010 general consumer prices have increased 16 per cent, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Archicentre, the building advisory services of the Australian Institute of Architects, says the sky rocketing costs of energy and water will be highlighted over summer and provide a strong focus on future housing design.
Archicentre Queensland state manager Ian Agnew said: “The use of air conditioning, both in homes and in businesses, is one of the prime drivers of peak demand and on extreme days of heat have contributed to major black outs in some states.
“The ongoing severe cost rises in water and power, and the changing political landscape on climate change and sustainability, has placed sustainable housing design and 'Green' retro-fitting on the economic and environmental agenda in Australia."
“The key to year-round comfort is passive solar design. This is where a highly trained architect carefully combines materials, methods, building form and the sun's natural energy to help keep your house cool in summer and warm in winter.
“This approach saves money, respects the environment and enables you to live comfortably year round". The energy-wise home requires a complex mix of well insulated, high thermal mass, intelligent glazing and ventilation, all arranged in a way that enhances comfort, anywhere in Australia."
"Insulation is paramount to the energy-wise home experience. Lining the roof, walls and floor can reduce heat loss in winter, and heat-gain in summer. Materials with a high thermal mass, like stone, brick or rammed earth, take a long time to heat up and a long time to cool down. Walls with a high thermal mass should be shaded to minimise a heat load in summer.
