Results Summary
| Impact Area | Total CO2e / Year / occupant (kg CO2e) | % Saved Against Benchmark | eTool Medal |
| Embodied Carbon | 746 | 19 % |  |
| Operational Carbon | -360 | 112 % |  |
| Total Carbon | 386 | 90 % |  |
Project features
Design life
With increased functionality and higher occupancy compared to similar size houses, this 4 bedroom residence is projected to last for 55 years due to lower redevelopment potential in comparison to surrounding buildings in the same area. The high occupancy level has also reduced the overall environmental footprint, when we calculate functional units of kgCO2 per year per occupant. In other words, the impact caused by the materials, construction and operation will benefit more people.
Materials
A good combination of different wall types including Hebel panels, highly insulated timber stud walls and high thermal mass brick and limestone walls guaranteed a good thermal performance and future proofing aesthetic design.
Operational Energy
An eTool Platinum Medal was achieved mostly due to the large Solar PV sytem that will generate excess clean energy over the lifetime of the building. Other important features include the energy monitoring system.
Energy monitoring allows occupants to understand what appliances and devices are demanding the most energy (electricity) and adjust behaviour accordingly. Find more details about energy monitoring solutions and market trends in this eTool presentation.
Renewable Energy
A 5kW Solar PV system will generate more electricity than will be used onsite and the energy input offsets will bring the residence down to net zero operational carbon. With a roof allocated to Solar PV, the hot water system will be an electric storage heat pump benefiting by solar electricity when available and high coefficient of performance (COP). Solar electricity will also be used for the low voltage slab heating. Careful operation of the heating system will be required to minimise use when solar electricity is not available.
Additional Features
- Polished concrete and timber floors will replace carpet throughout the building. Carpets have a large embodied impact due to high maintenance and replacement over the life of the building.
- 8 Stars NatHERS Energy Rating – Thermal Performance
For more information about Arklen’s design philosophy and custom builds, visit their website.
This assessment was conducted by Henrique
