The BDAV is inviting its 1600+ members to submit ground-breaking designs for energy-efficient houses with a 10 star energy rating.

“People are surprised when they hear these houses wouldn’t require any heating or cooling, meaning no household bills for residents and no greenhouse gas emissions for the environment,” says BDAV president Mr Tim Adams.

“We all know climate change is a major threat to our communities and to future generations, and this challenge is a way for the BDAV to take the lead to help tackle the problem – while also raising awareness of the need to adapt to climate change.

“I believe there’s a growing acceptance of the need for houses with lower greenhouse emissions and more people are realising this can be done cost-effectively at the outset and in a way that delivers real long-term benefits to families’ hip pockets.”

Research has shown that when compared to a typical existing 3 star suburban home, each additional energy star represents around a $5000 saving in energy costs over 7 years of a home’s life.

“As a designer, if you can design a 10 star energy rated house, then a 6 star energy rated house, or a renovation that aims to improve energy efficiency, won’t be hard,” Tim says.

Rob Gell, prominent sustainable development advocate, national President of Greening Australia, and co-founder of the International College of Environmental Sustainability, is the 10 Star Energy Challenge Ambassador.

“I’m excited about the competition, and very proud to be in the role of ambassador,” he says.

“This competition will help the design community focus on the benefits of sustainable design, particularly with this year’s introduction of new minimum 6 star energy ratings for all new Victorian homes and major renovations from May.

“With the need for us to account for our pollution, and discussions of a carbon tax or a trading scheme, the best way to avoid that financial impact will be by having an energy efficient, affordable home,” Mr Gell said.