New developments in the heart of Dalkeith may need to meet a ‘world-leading’ energy standard.
City councilors from the city of Nedlands recently voted to promote a policy that requires six green stars for new developments in the central Dalkeith Waratah district instead of the staff recommendation for 4.
A development with six stars is considered ‘world leading’, while four stars are called ‘best practice’.
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Jorge Chapa, Head of Market Transformation for the Green Building Council of Australia, told PerthNow that a four-star building would either have zero CO2 emissions in its operations or outperform on energy, water, and health-related factors compared to a typical installation.
Mr. Chapa said that to achieve five stars, a building must demonstrate that it is a higher environmental performer and address some social issues.
And for six stars, he said the building should be free of fossil fuels and a “highly efficient and resilient building powered entirely by renewable energy sources”.
“It specifically makes a positive contribution to the environmental and social health of the community,” said Mr. Chapa.
“They have drastically reduced the carbon in their products and materials. They also create great places for the community and deliver better social outcomes, as they are designed for the diversity of the population.
“Four stars is a significant step forward against the requirements of the National Construction Code and is a good standard to aim for. Six stars is a few steps further than that – the pinnacle of green design and use of buildings.”
Camera IconThe Scarborough Beach Pool meets six green star requirements. Credit: Danella Bevis/The West Australian
Mr. Chapa said six-star buildings were “rare and exceptional projects” suitable for building owners who wanted to “show where the industry should be in 10 years”.
“Given the complexity involved in developing six-star buildings, which are generally world-class, the costs are higher,” he said.
“In and around Perth, there are about 10 to 15 projects currently 6-star certified, with about double the number in the pipeline.”
6-star developments in WA include the Tuart Lakes Clubhouse in Cooloongup, the Scarborough Beach Pool, and the Capital Square Tower.
A Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage spokesman said the city should consider the submissions before finalizing the policy.
“Local governments cannot change the energy efficiency requirements of the Residential Design Codes (R codes) without the approval of the WA Planning Commission,” he said.
“Six star rating for green building is not a requirement for development approval in WA.
“The DPLH is unaware of any jurisdiction where a GBCA 6-star building certification requirement is required for development approval.”
Camera Icon New Home Building Brokers Director Tristan Kirkham. Credit: unknown/delivered
Tristan Kirkham, managing director of New Home Building Brokers, said a four or six-star requirement for developments could benefit the market and developers but warned that case studies were needed before implementation.
“It’s important that these development requirements are appropriate for all markets as much as possible,” said Mr. Kirkham.
“More clarity is needed on the specification of these requirements; until this is fully known, a developer, let alone a builder, cannot give an accurate price on the cost of this type of development.
“And in this market, it’s critical.”
Mr. Kirkham said 4-star developments were difficult enough to “pile up” because of the cost, additional barriers required, and extra pressure on development timeframes.
“A full four and 6-star cost case study must be made available in advance, including using the points system. This would allow all parties to be better informed before making decisions,” he said.
Subiaco-based city planner and founder of Developed Real Estate Daniel Paton said that “some form of bonus” for getting six stars would be “more attractive” and lead to better outcomes for the area in the long run.
