On average, Australians spend $1 500 on energy bills per year. Of that 90% comes from the use of fossil fuels: with such a significant amount of our energy contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, energy conservation and efficiency is therefore very important. Energy Efficiency is one of the easiest and most important ways you can combat climate change and save money in your home and office. It is important to remember that it's easy to be energy efficient! Energy efficiency and conservation can take place through new habits and technology. You can also make sure your home is energy efficient through sustainable building design. Simple ways to conserve energy are to turn off lights when you leave a room, make sure your home is adequately insulated, hang out clothes to dry rather than using a dryer, and install 5 star energy efficient appliances.
Would you like to know how much your appliances are costing to run? Are you interested to know how many tonnes of greenhouse gases you are contributing to the atmosphere? Borrow a Power-Mate from the Nedlands or Mt Claremont library and test your appliances.
Environment House can arrange an in-home 90 minute energy audit to help you increase your energy efficiency. The auditor will measure your energy consumption, check your appliances and hot water system, advice on eco-renovations, and can offer eco-trade work for an additional cost. 90-minute audits cost $150. Call Environment House on 9271 4488.
New Energy Efficiency provisions have been added to the Building Code of Australia (BCA) which require new dwellings and additions to comply with the provisions set out in Part 3.12 of the BCA. The City is required to check compliance against these provisions and the onus is on the builder to demonstrate that the new dwelling or additions complies with the various elements of Part 3.12 of the BCA.