Add CategoryAs the cost of living continues to rise across Australia, homeowners are increasingly looking for solutions that save money and contribute positively to the environment.
Amid this financial strain, net zero homes are emerging as a viable option to significantly reduce utility bills and ease financial stress for homeowners.
What is a net zero home?
A net zero home is designed to be highly efficient in its energy use, reducing costs while minimising carbon output.
Plantation Homes in Queensland offers net zero homes with 7-star energy efficiency, appealing to buyers who want to lower their carbon footprints without compromising on modern comforts.
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The homes appeal to eco-conscious buyers who still want modern comforts.
“A net-zero carbon home is built to keep energy use low and includes features like energy-saving appliances,” explains Plantation Homes General Manager, Alex Raleigh.
“It also has solar panels to generate clean energy.
"The goal is to ensure that the amount of clean energy produced over a year is at least equal to the greenhouse gases normally released.”
Raleigh emphasises the benefits: “It's like the household cancels out its carbon footprint by not adding extra greenhouse gases to the atmosphere.
“This helps save on energy bills, makes the house more comfortable, and is better for the planet.”
Addressing the cost-of-living crisis
Many Australians are feeling the impacts of deteriorating housing affordability and higher cost-of-living pressures.
Net zero homes allow owners to have more control over running costs while reducing environmental impacts.
With rising inflation, utility costs, and interest rates, energy efficiency has become a priority for Australian homeowners, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and make life more affordable.
The concept of a net zero home is compelling, as it can allow owners more control over the home's running costs instead of being at the mercy of rising utility prices.
“Cost-saving measures have become increasingly important to our buyers,” explains Mr Raleigh.
“Net zero homes offer the dual benefit of lowering utility bills and reducing environmental impact, which resonates with homeowners seeking financially and ethically sound choices.”
Net zero and 7-star homes now mainstream at Plantation Homes
This concept has now become a reality in the new home builder market, with Plantation Homes creating a portfolio of designs that set new industry benchmarks.
Assessed by EnergyLab, all solar-powered homes offered by Plantation Homes in Queensland meet the new 7-star energy efficiency standards and Whole of Home National Construction Code (NCC) requirements, and they are also net zero.
Design – The Plantation difference
For today's buyers, choosing a sustainable home certainly doesn't mean sacrificing aesthetics.
As an established builder with a strong reputation, Plantation Homes ensures buyers receive a house that is both visually appealing and carbon-efficient.
A leader in sustainable home design in Queensland, Plantation Homes embraces the latest advancements in passive heating and cooling, home appliances, and smart home system technologies to maximise energy efficiency.
Plantation Homes offers the latest in passive heating and cooling, home appliances, and smart home technologies.
They incorporate features like strategic window placement for optimal sunlight, energy-efficient insulation to maintain consistent indoor temperatures, and advanced ventilation systems to improve air circulation.
Solar power, Daikin reverse cycle ducted air conditioning, and Smeg induction cooktops are included in the advertised price of the solar all electric homes.
"Our standard plans, facades, and all electric features for our Queensland homes with solar panels in both the Mainvue and Reserve Collections achieve net-zero status," explains Mr Raleigh.
"This is based on a NatHERS whole-of-home performance rating of 100+, which takes into account appliance efficiency and average household energy use."
“These homes don’t just save energy; they create it, benefiting both the planet and your power bills.”
Financial benefits
The financial advantages of net-zero homes are compelling.
According to the latest data and analysis, significant savings on energy bills, capital growth potential, and long-term investment value make these homes a strong value proposition.
As the need for sustainable living solutions continues to grow, net-zero homes offer a promising path towards financial stability and environmental responsibility.
Buying options
Plantation Homes provides multiple purchase options, including new builds, knockdown rebuilds for those wanting to stay in their current location, and house and land packages catering to families looking for a fresh start.
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