Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme
The Australian Government's Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) uses computer simulations to assess the potential thermal comfort of homes on a scale of zero to 10 stars. The more stars, the less likely the occupants will need cooling or heating to stay comfortable. Assessing a building's thermal performance at the design stage can identify simple, economical ways to make it more comfortable and save energy.
Scinergy staff are trained, and nationally accredited via ABSA, in the use of the second generation thermal performance software BERS Pro.
Articles and background reading about NatHERS
Residential ratings – so who’s got the dodgy data then? The Fifth Estate, Oct 2010
Banking on a Green Home - Sanctuary, Issue 12 2010
What is included in a rating?
- layout (how different zones of the home connect, and how the home sits on the block)
- construction of the roof, walls, windows and floor (external, internal, insulation)
- orientation of windows in relation to sun's path, shading and local breezes (passive heating and cooling potential)
- how well these suit the local climate (69 different climate zones are defined in the software)
What is not included?
- Energy consumption by hot water systems, lights or household appliances
- Internal window dressings
- ... because these things are often replaced during the life of the building
What do the stars mean?
- Zero stars means the building envelope does virtually nothing to protect occupants from the discomfort of hot and cold weather
- 5 stars indicates good, but not outstanding, thermal performance
- 10 stars means the home is unlikely to need any artificial cooling or heating to maintain a comfortable temperature for occupants
- You can read more about star ratings here