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A low-energy houseZero-energy housing

The concepts of net zero energy, zero emission homes and low energy buildings have been a key goal for those involved in the sustainable building industry. With our focused research, the Barbara Hardy Institute is contributing to and monitoring a number of zero/low energy developments. Our research involves investigating the feasibility of using smart technologies, energy efficient design features and applicants and local energy generation in achieving the zero/low energy outcome. Both energy modelling and analysis of real data is employed.

The Barbara Hardy Institute engages with the community to combat escalating energy costs and the increased impact of climate change. We understand that people have a strong and growing desire to actively contribute to a sustainable future and we strive to assist the community achieve those goals, starting in their own homes.

See also our testing and evaluation services for solar energy applications.

Zero-energy housing

Through the implementation of existing technology and effective building design, a zero energy house can be readily achieved in Australia.  Research teams in the institute conduct research for housing developments to work toward this goal by applying a holistic approach to total household energy demand. For example for both the Mawson Lakes and more recently the Lochiel Park residential developments in Adelaide, researchers developed the technical design guidelines adopted by Delfin. Furthermore the institute is validating these guidelines against actual usage via a comprehensive data collection and monitoring regime by household. For more information refer to iGrid

In addition to practical research and strong monitoring capability, the institute is also a regular source of advice to government and industry on ways to reduce energy use in domestic housing.

For more information please contact Wasim Saman, Martin Belusko or David Whaley

Advanced building systems for Low Energy Buildings

A team of researchers conduct research into developing improved building components such as roofs, walls and ducting, which can significantly reduce the energy needed to heat and cool buildings. Through a strong experimental focus, researchers have developed in house test facilities capable of identifying the thermal characteristics of existing building elements. From these innovative solutions can be achieved by improving the configuration of building systems as well as using new technologies such as aerogel insulation.

For more information please contact Wasim Saman or Martin Belusko

Key projects

Key Barbara Hardy Institute projects within this research capability include:

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