The NSW Government has published information about increased BASIX Energy Targets, which will come into effect across the state in July 2017.

These changes are designed to respond to changes in construction design and new technologies and will be more in tune with the national building standards in the Building Code of Australia.

The increases in energy targets for houses and low-rise units will increase by 10%, with a 5% increase for mid and high-rise units. There will also be changes to the settings for thermal comfort heating and cooling. The changes are expected to be achievable at little or no additional cost and will continue to assist NSW in delivering energy efficient housing.

The Government is also considering what further changes should be made to BASIX and what other energy efficiency measures should be adopted. The Minister for the Environment is seeking feedback on the Draft Plan to Save NSW Energy and Money. In relation to BASIX, the Plan asks:

• how to improve BASIX through future reviews of the targets;
• higher target increases in selected high-growth land release areas and in specific local government areas with participating Council;
• additional information on BASIX certificates to help consumers understand the benefits of homes with best better design standards that more energy efficient.

More information here.