Energy efficiency and sustainability are concepts that Australian homeowners and homebuyers are placing greater importance upon in recent years. This trend isn't only due to the increased emphasis placed upon reducing one's carbon footprint, but also affordability, a key concern for Australians in a day and age of rising energy prices.The Sustainable Energy Association of Australia and other groups, including the WA Renewable Energy Alliance (WAREA), have worked hard to promote energy efficient building design and practices. After many years of fighting for more energy efficient homes, their efforts finally paid off with the introduction of mandatory 6-Star housing building standards in November 2011.Green building New designs and technologies are constantly being developed and implemented to create greener, more energy efficient commercial and residential buildings. The objective behind the development and implementation of these designs and technologies is to create green buildings that minimise the impact and pressure placed on the environment and the health of those residing there.Western Australia's ClimateThe Western Australian climate is among the most diverse in the world. The capital Perth, with its 131 days of dreamily blue skies annually, is 'officially' Australia's sunniest capital city, thus making it the perfect place to harness the energy of the sun.Whilst the average maximum temperature in summer is 29°C, the temperature can drop to around 12°C in winter. What this means for homeowners and homebuyers in Perth and Mandurah, is that energy efficient, sustainable design and technology need to be implemented to keep their homes cool in summer and warm in winter.How to build an energy efficient and sustainable home Building an energy efficient, sustainable home is the culmination of the right design elements, materials and professional expertise for a particular climate and environment. When designing and building a home that adheres to the 6-Star rating system, bear the following points in mind.The bigger the home, the more difficult it is to make energy efficientThe positioning of the home on the block affects energy efficiencyPlan shading for windows and use double-glazing and/or tintingR4 ceiling insulation and wall cavity insulation should be usedConsider the sun's movements during summer and winterConsider the colour of the roof and external wallsAn energy efficient and sustainable home is within the reach of all homebuyers and homeowners, whatever the budget they have to work with.
