New energy ratings get tick of approval

Climate Action Bunbury has welcomed the State Government’s push to bring West Australian houses into line with other States which have six-star energy efficiency ratings.

Group spokesman Hrimnir Benediktsson said while he supported the Government’s move ‘‘wholeheartedly’’, more could be done to make the housing industry more energy efficient.

‘‘I guess you could go a step further and encourage the Government to look at some kind of scheme to retrofit all existing homes because that’s where the majority of energy use is,’’ he said.

The Association of Building Sustainability Assessors welcomed Commerce Minister Simon O’Brien’s announcement that the new requirements for new homes would be introduced in WA from May 1.

ABSA general manager David Spear said the six-star rating regulation in WA was ‘‘long overdue’’.

‘‘We believe that this is an important change that will assist the people of WAto address the looming prices rises associated with powering their homes,’’ he said.

‘‘We know from experience that improving the star rating of a new home will make it more affordable in the long-term and if done the right way will have little or no impact on the total cost of the new home.’’

Mr O’Brien said there will be a 12-month grace period for builders to comply with the new laws fromMay 1.

‘‘The transitional arrangement will allow for buildings to be approved under the superseded arrangements for a period of 12 months,’’ he said in a statement.

‘‘The transitional period is in place to ensure fairness of choice and cost for the new home builder and allow the building industry time to comply with the changes.’’

Labor spokesman for sustainable living Chris Tallentire said Mr O’Brien must ensure all West Australian know they can insist on a six-star rating today.

‘‘The decision to make new Australian homes energy efficient through setting a minimum standard, the six star rating, will contribute to steady improvement of the quality of our housing stock,’’ he said.