Thermal efficiency standards are needed to meet net zero goals, experts say. 

A report (PDF) led by RMIT University and commissioned by RACE for 2030 highlights the pressing need to enhance the thermal performance of Australian homes. 

Thermal efficiency refers to a dwelling's ability to be energy-efficient and comfortable throughout different seasons.

To reach the net-zero goal, the report recommends focusing on key priorities such as improving the construction of new homes and encouraging households to prioritise and undertake thermal upgrades. 

It also calls for home energy assessment information to be made more widely available, and investing in research to drive progress.

Professor Priya Rajagopalan, the lead researcher and Inaugural Director of RMIT's Post-Carbon Infrastructure and Built Environment Research Centre, says the thermal performance of homes is often overlooked. 

“A thermally efficient home is also an energy efficient one given that heating and cooling represents up to 50 per cent of energy used,” said Rajagopalan. 

“A poorly constructed building shell uses more energy to keep people warm or cool, which leads to an increase in carbon emissions and expensive power bills.” 

While the introduction of the seven-star energy efficiency building standards is a step in the right direction for new homes, Rajagopalan argues that more should be done during the design and construction stages. 

Early involvement of thermal assessors can help identify and address issues before it's too late. 

Additionally, she stresses the importance of improving the training of tradespeople to ensure proper construction practices and minimise air leakage and moisture entry.

High-performance windows and insulation are essential for thermal efficiency, but cost remains a barrier for some. 

Rajagopalan points out that messaging should focus on the long-term benefits, including improved health, wellbeing, and quality of life, rather than just upfront costs.

Retrofitting existing homes is another significant challenge. With approximately 10 million poorly performing homes in Australia, Rajagopalan calls for government assistance in designing and implementing affordable thermal performance assessment programs. 

She suggests creating a centralised resource providing reliable information on retrofitting homes from verified sources to facilitate the process for homeowners.

The report concludes that enhancing the thermal performance of homes has wider implications beyond reducing emissions, such as combating the housing crisis and improving the quality of life for lower-income populations. 

The research was a collaborative effort involving RMIT University, CSIRO, and Climate KIC Australia, with contributions from multiple co-authors.