6 or 7 Star Design Advantages
Rate Energy encourage clients to plan with energy efficiency in mind. This is the most cost effective way of achieving 6 stars or the required star rating.
You can achieve the 6 or 7 Star Standard with a few simple adjustments to design and construction, and by including a combination of the many options to improve the building's energy-efficiency:
- Orientation: Passive solar design to maximise natural heating and cooling
- Insulation: Comprehensive insulation throughout the building envelope
- Draught-proofing: Sealing of the building's envelope to prevent air leakage
- Window Design: Better window design including size, location, and quality thermal performance of frames and glazing
- Shading: Strategic shading to control solar gain
- Building Fabric: Selection of appropriate cladding materials and flooring
Key Principle
The same passive principles apply: maximise cooling air movement and exclude sun in hot months, trap and store heat and minimise heat loss to the external environment in cooler months.
Diversity in Design
A variety of dwelling types encourages diversity in the social mix and offers multiple design opportunities for different sustainable strategies. Whether you're building a single home, dual occupancy, or multi-unit development, the principles of energy efficient design can be applied effectively.
Cost-Effective Approach
Planning for energy efficiency from the start is always more cost-effective than retrofitting later. By engaging an energy assessor early in the design process, you can make informed decisions that balance construction costs with long-term energy savings.
We are very conscious of building costs. You will be given options whether they be insulation or glazing options, then proceed in the direction you prefer.