Get ready for mid-2025 when NatHERS will expand to include existing homes, offering homeowners a clear path to energy efficiency and cost savings.
From mid-2025, the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), which has traditionally provided energy ratings for new homes and major renovations, will be extended to include existing homes across Australia. This significant expansion aims to help homeowners and renters gain a better understanding of their home's energy performance. By providing insights into cost-effective upgrades, NatHERS will assist in reducing energy bills and contribute to Australia's broader climate and energy efficiency goals.
This initiative represents a major step forward in ensuring that Australia's housing stock is more energy-efficient, comfortable, and resilient to climate challenges. By including existing homes in the NatHERS framework, the government aims to drive a wave of renovations and upgrades, ultimately making older homes more sustainable.
Under the expanded NatHERS scheme, trained and accredited assessors will visit existing homes to collect comprehensive data on various features such as layout, construction materials, orientation, insulation, windows, and shading. Advanced tools, including computer modeling and, in some cases, LiDAR scanning technology, will be employed to accurately capture the dimensions and characteristics of the home. This approach ensures that the assessment process is both efficient and reliable.
The collected data will be inputted into NatHERS-approved software to generate a star rating between 0 and 10, reflecting the home's predicted heating and cooling needs and overall thermal performance. A 0-star home indicates poor energy efficiency, likely resulting in discomfort year-round and high running costs, while a 10-star home denotes excellent energy efficiency, with minimal to no need for mechanical heating or cooling.
Homeowners who participate in the NatHERS assessment will receive a Home Energy Rating Certificate, which provides a clear measure of their home’s energy performance. This certificate will also offer tailored advice on upgrades to improve comfort and efficiency, making it an invaluable tool for those looking to enhance their living environment.
Additionally, banks and financial institutions may use these ratings to verify eligibility for green loans and support energy-efficient home upgrades. This can unlock better financing options for households. The anticipated surge in renovations and upgrades driven by the scheme will not only benefit individual homeowners but also contribute to Australia’s efforts to create a more climate-ready and resilient housing stock.
The expansion of NatHERS to existing homes has been shaped by extensive stakeholder engagement, including input from assessors, industry groups, and the public. This collaborative approach ensures that the delivery model is reliable, consistent, and comparable nationwide, while also minimising administrative complexity and risk.
Field trials and pilot programs have tested the methodology and tools, with some eligible homeowners and renters able to access free assessments during the trial phase. These trials have provided valuable insights and feedback, helping to refine the process and ensure that it meets the needs of all stakeholders involved.
As the mid-2025 launch approaches, it is crucial for homeowners, renters, and industry professionals to stay informed about the rollout and assessment process. More details will be released in the lead-up to the official launch, providing valuable information on how the scheme will be implemented and what to expect.
For those interested in improving their home’s energy performance or accessing green finance, a NatHERS assessment will be a significant step forward. By staying engaged and informed, stakeholders can take advantage of the opportunities presented by this expansion and contribute to a more energy-efficient, sustainable future for Australia’s housing stock.