Energy efficiency transition period ends today!

In 2019, the ABCB agreed to significant changes to the energy efficiency requirements in the NCC, including a 12 month transition period during which either these or the 2016 provisions could be applied. The changes affect all buildings, but are particularly significant for commercial buildings.

Noting that individual states and territories may apply the provisions differently and in some cases delay their introduction, from 1 May 2020, practitioners will be required to use only the NCC 2019 provisions. The new requirements, particularly for commercial buildings, mark a shift in how energy efficiency is considered as part of the process of design and construction.

It is imperative that these new energy efficiency requirements are well understood by all of those involved in designing and constructing new and refurbished buildings to ensure that buildings perform better and use less energy.

Please note: As the application of the new energy efficiency provisions may be treated differently by the States and Territories, if you are unsure, please contact your Building Administration to confirm how they apply your jurisdiction.

Resources to support you

To assist in understanding the new and updated energy efficiency provisions, the ABCB has released a number of supporting resources:

• Handbook: NCC Volume One Energy Efficiency
• Handbook: NCC Volume Two Energy Efficiency
• Calculator: NCC Volume One Façade
• Calculator: NCC Volume One Lighting
• Calculator: NCC Volume One Fan Systems
• Calculator: NCC Volume One Pump Systems
• Calculator: NCC Volume Two Glazing
• Calculator: NCC Volume Two Lighting
• ABCB Standard: NatHERS Heating and cooling loads
• Video: Section J Transformed: Stepping into energy change for commercial buildings

You can access more resources or find out what is expected to be released soon from the energy efficiency initiative.

Need help or assistance?

If you need help or assistance with understanding or implementing the NCC 2019 provisions, we recommend you can contact your member association.

Architects and designers

• Association of Consulting Architects Australia
• Australian Institute of Architects
• Building Designers Association of Australia
• Design Matters National
  

Building Surveyors

• Association of Accredited Certifiers
• Australian Institute of Building Surveyors
• Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors

Engineers

• Air Conditioning & Mechanical Contractors Association
• Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating
• Australian Glass and Window Association
• Consult Australia
• Engineers Australia
  
• Illuminating Engineering Society of Australia and New Zealand
• Society of Building Services Engineers

Energy efficiency experts

• Australian Building Sustainability Association
• Design Matters National
  
• Green Building Council Australia
  
• International Building Performance Simulation Association Australasia
• NABERS

This is not a complete list.