Zero Energy Sustainable House Delivery

3 Fi%h Avenue, Brunswick

1170540
Table of Contents:

1. Property Overview 3
1. Loca=on and Structure
2. Site Analysis and Design Strategies
3. RESCODE Compliance
4. Floorplan Strategies
5. Zoning Strategies

2. Introduc6on 5

3. Tankulator 6
1. Integra=on and Water Use Targets
2. Plumbing Connec=ons
3. Yearly Averages and Efficiency

4. BESS (Building Environmental Sustainability Score) 8

1. Waste Management
2. Transport
3. IEQ (Indoor Environmental Quality)
4. Water Efficiency
5. Energy Efficiency
6. BESS Summary

5. FirstRate5 Ra6ng System 10

1. Energy Efficiency Improvements
2. Concise FirstRate5 Summary

6. HOT 2000 12
1. Ceiling and Main Floor Specifica=ons
2. Wall and Floor Construc=on
3. Temperatures and Base Loads
4. Natural Air Infiltra=on and Ven=la=on
5. Hea=ng, Cooling, and DHW Systems

7. PV Systems 15
1. PV Units Informa=on
2. Energy Produc=on and Zero-Emission Assurance

8. Conclusion 16

9. Reference List 17

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1. PROPERTY OVERVIEW

Property Overview:
- Loca=on: 3 Fi%h Avenue, Brunswick, VIC 3056
- Land Size: 484 m²
- Structure: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 3 parking spaces

Site Analysis and Design Strategies:

1. Sunlight Maximiza=on:
- Op=mized window placements for natural light and ven=la=on.
- Focus on north and southeast sides for sunlight and prevailing winds.

RESCODE Compliance:
- Street Setback: 6.5 meters.
- North Boundary Setback: 3 meters.
- Walls on Boundary: Limited to 9.5 meters.
- Daylight to Room Windows: Maintained south boundary setback of 1.5 meters.
- Site Coverage: 25%.
- Permeability: 57%.
- Private Open Space: 195 square meters backyard.

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Floorplan Strategies:

Strategy Impact
Thermal Bridging Minimized external corners for enhanced energy efficiency.
Thermal Mass U=liza=on Placed key areas on the north side for effec=ve thermal
mass u=liza=on.
North-Facing Windows Increased to op=mize solar penetra=on for passive hea=ng.
Eaves Installa=on Introduced eaves on the north side for temperature
regula=on.
Ven=la=on Enhancement Implemented stack ven=la=on through a ven=lated roof.

Zoning Strategies:

Space Orienta6on Benefits

Kitchen, Living and Dining North Captures north light for reduced hea=ng
needs.
Bedrooms South Minimizes hea=ng and cooling demands.
Study South Benefits from diffused light for a conducive
study environment.
Air Condi=oned Rooms East Posi=oned for controlled condi=ons.

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2. INTRODUCTION

3 Fi%h Avenue, Brunswick, undergoes a remarkable transforma=on in the "Zero Energy

Sustainable House Delivery" project, evolving from a conven=onal residence into an eco-
conscious property that runs on zero emission through the use of sustainably aware choices.
This two-bedroom, one-bathroom dwelling, with parking for three vehicles on a 484-square-
meter plot, emerges as a symbol of modern living in harmony with nature.

A precise site analysis, u=lizing wind-rose and sun path data, informs the design for
RESCODE compliance and op=mal energy efficiency. The floorplan strategically minimizes
thermal bridging, harnesses thermal mass, and maximizes natural light and ven=la=on.

Water efficiency takes centre stage with an 8500-liter tank analysed through the Tankulator.
Strategic plumbing connec=ons op=mize rainwater for non-potable tasks, significantly
reducing reliance on treated drinking water. Yearly averages underscore the unwavering
commitment to resource conserva=on.

The pursuit of an 80% Building Environmental Sustainability Score (BESS) results in an

impressive overall score, highligh=ng enhancements in waste management, energy
efficiency, and more.

Improvements in the FirstRate5 ra=ng focus on strategic energy efficiency, providing detailed
insights into changes in wall, floor, roof, and ceiling components. The integra=on of the Hot
2000 system and Photovoltaic (PV) Systems propels the project toward its ambi=ous zero-
energy goal.

In conclusion, 3 Fi%h Avenue stands not just as a residence but as a living testament to
sustainable living principles. It goes beyond the tradi=onal concept of home, seamlessly
integra=ng with nature and selng the stage for an eco-friendly future that priori=zes
innova=on, efficiency, and conscien=ous living.

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3. TANKULATOR

- Integra=on of an 8500-litre tank.

- Daily water use target: 480 litres.
- 182 litres sourced daily from the tank.

Plumbing Connec=ons:

Non-Potable End Uses Connected to Rainwater Tank Connected to Mains Supply

Laundry
Garden Irriga=on
Toilet
Bathroom
Kitchen

The figure below goes into further detail regarding the ways in which the tank will be
ul=mately u=lised through the year. The yearly averages provide a comprehensive overview,
demonstra=ng a 96% availability rate for tank water over 350 days. With no instances of tank
overflow, the system effec=vely prevents water wastage. Addi=onally, the Tankulator
showcases the system's resilience, drawing 63,670 litres annually from the tank and reducing
reliance on mains water.

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The commitment to efficient rainwater harves=ng is clearly demonstrated through the
Tankulator analysis, emphasizing the project's dedica=on to water conserva=on. Carefully
planned plumbing connec=ons guarantee that rainwater is specifically used for non-potable
tasks, reducing the need for treated drinking water. Yearly averages underscore the system's
reliability, with no instances of overflow and a substan=al decrease in reliance on mains
water. This detailed water efficiency strategy aligns seamlessly with the project's overarching
objec=ves of environmentally conscious design and resource conserva=on.

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4. BESS

This report aims to raise the 55% BESS ra=ng achieved by group 3 to an 80% overall ra=ng.
In order to achieve this, the following steps were taken:

1. Waste Management (55% to 61% BESS):

Improvement Impact
Reuse of 30% of exis=ng The reuse of building materials minimized construc=on
building waste, onsite waste, and onsite waste facili=es achieved a perfect 100%
food, and garden waste ra=ng, showcasing a commitment to sustainable prac=ces.
management.

2. Transport (61% to 70% BESS):

Improvement Impact
Provided three bicycle These measures not only exceeded minimum requirements
spaces, facilitated electric but also aligned with sustainable urban planning principles,
car charging. promo=ng alterna=ve transporta=on. The 0% to 100% surge
in efficiency reflected a holis=c approach to reducing the
project's carbon footprint.

3. IEQ (70% to 73% BESS):

Improvement Impact
Ensured crossflow Commitment to crossflow ven=la=on significantly improved
ven=la=on in habitable indoor environment quality, exceeding the ini=al ra=ng of
rooms. 80%. This dedica=on showcased a conscious effort to create
a healthier living space.

4. Water Efficiency (73% to 75% BESS):

Improvement Impact
Connected Tank 1 to non- By connec=ng Tank 1 to non-potable sources, the project
potable sources, excluded demonstrated water efficiency and conserva=on. The
non-potable water from exclusion of non-potable water from the hot water system
the hot water system. further contributed to achieving a 75% BESS.

5. Energy Efficiency (75% to 80% BESS):

Improvement Impact
Installed solar Incorpora=ng renewable energy sources and adop=ng an all-
photovoltaic systems, electric energy supply significantly enhanced energy
adopted an all-electric efficiency. The addi=on of a 4-star rated cooling system
energy supply, added a 4- further reduced the environmental impact, resul=ng in a 80%
star rated cooling system. BESS.

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Concise BESS Summary:

- Waste: 55% to 61%

- Transport: 61% to 70%
- IEQ: 70% to 73%
- Water: 73% to 75%
- Energy: 75% to 80%
- Overall: 80%

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5. FIRST RATE

The improvements made in the FirstRate5 ra=ng system, transi=oning from a 7-star to an 8-
star ra=ng, showcase a strategic approach to enhance energy efficiency.

In order to achieve the increase in the star ra=ng, the following decisions were made:

Walls:

Wall Type Bulk Insula6on (R) Area (sqm)

Brick Veneer 2.5 121.8
Internal Plasterboard 2.5 87.2

Floor Type Bulk Insula6on (R) Area (sqm)

CSOG (Slab on Ground) 2.0 152.4

Roofs and Ceilings:

Roof/Ceiling Type Bulk Insula6on (R) Area (sqm)

Vent 2.5 152.4

Windows:

Window Type U Value SHGC Area (sqm)

CMP – 005 – 01 2.9 0.5 32.87
Composite A DG
Argon Fill Clear-Clear

Energy Efficiency Improvements in FirstRate5:

1. Wall Improvements (7.3 to 7.4 stars):

Ac6on Impact
Implemented insula=on - Thermal barrier for reduced heat transfer
placeholder (R value 2.63), - Minimizes winter heat loss, summer heat gain
added a wool and polyester - Maintains consistent indoor temperatures
bap layer (R value 2.51). - Lowers energy costs and environmental impact

2. Floor Improvements (7.4 to 7.6 stars):

Ac6on Impact
Transi=oned to =les as - Thermal mass regulates indoor temperatures
floor covering. - Efficient heat distribu=on with high thermal conduc=vity
- Complements underfloor hea=ng systems
- Lowers environmental impact and resource consump=on

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 3. Roof Enhancements (7.6 to 7.8 stars):

Ac6on Impact
Implemented reflec=ve - Bulk insula=on in walls and ceilings maintains consistent
roof space, bulk temperatures.
insula=on (R value 2.5). - Reduces heat absorp=on, lowers cooling needs.
- Reduces u=lity costs for sustainability.

4. Ceiling Level Improvements (7.8 to 8.0 stars):

Ac6on Impact
Installed bulk insula=on - Ceiling bulk insula=on reduces heat transfer
at ceiling level (R value - Maintains consistent indoor temperatures
2.5). - Lowers hea=ng or cooling needs
- Enhances sustainability and comfort

Concise FirstRate5 Summary:

Wall: 7.3 to 7.4 stars

Floor: 7.4 to 7.6 stars
Roof: 7.6 to 7.8 stars
Ceiling: 7.8 to 8.0 stars

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6. HOT 2000

Es=mated annual space and DHW energy consump=on: 11,810.47 kWh

To achieve the output of 11,810.47 kWh, a comprehensive set of inputs has been
me=culously entered into the HOT 2000 so%ware, outlining various aspects of the building
specifica=ons and ac=ve systems. The details provided below offer a thorough
understanding of the chosen approaches and modifica=ons:

1. Ceiling:
- Construc=on: Flat
- Loca=on: House
- R-Value: 4.21
- Measurements:
- Length: 50 m
- Area: 160 sqm
- Heel Height: 0.13 m

- Explana6on: The flat ceiling construc=on with a high R-value aims to minimize heat
transfer between the house and the exterior. The specified measurements ensure accurate
representa=on for effec=ve thermal performance.

2. Main Floor:
- Measurements:
- Height: 2.4 m
- Perimeter: 60 m
- Area: 144 sqm
- R-Value: 2.63 RSI

- Explana6on: The dimensions and R-value of the main floor contribute to maintaining a
comfortable indoor temperature. The R-value reflects the insula=on effec=veness,
op=mizing energy efficiency.

2.1 Door 1 and 2:

- Material: Solid Wood
- R Value: 0.39 RSI

- Explana6on: Solid wood doors were chosen for their thermal resistance, providing
insula=on while ensuring a natural aesthe=c.

2.2 Walls:
- Shuper R Value: 3 RSI

- Explana6on: The specified shuper R value enhances the thermal performance of the
walls, contribu=ng to overall energy efficiency.

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3. Wall and Floor Construc6on:
- Insula=on:
- Below Slab: SCB_26
- Construc=on: Concrete or soil (for crawl space) floor
- Insula=on: Bopom of slab fully insulated except under foo=ng/founda=on wall.
- Building Design: First storey brick veneer placed directly on the concrete slab
- Floor Construc=on: 50 mm rig. Glass fibre (2 in) with an R-value of 1.5 and floor above
frost line

- Explana6on: These choices in insula=on and construc=on aim to prevent heat loss
through the floor and ensure efficient thermal regula=on.

4. Temperatures:
- Main Floors:
- Day=me Hea=ng Set Point: 21 degrees Celsius
- Night-=me Hea=ng Set Point: 20 degrees Celsius
- Cooling Setpoint: 25 degrees Celsius
- Night-=me Setback Dura=on: 8 hours
- Equipment:
- Hea=ng Set Point: 22 degrees Celsius
- Cooling Set Point: 24 degrees Celsius

- Explana6on: These temperature selngs strike a balance between comfort and energy
conserva=on, with night-=me setbacks reducing energy consump=on during non-peak
hours.

5. Base Loads:
- Occupants:
- 2 adults
- 1 child

- Explana6on: The number of occupants directly influences the base load calcula=ons,
ensuring the system caters to the needs of the household.

6. Natural Air Infiltra6on:

- House Volume: 438 sqm
- Air Tightness: Energy =ght (1.5 ach @ 50 Pa)
- Building Site: Suburban and Forest
- Above Grade Height of Highest Ceiling: 2.4 meters

- Explana6on: These specifica=ons consider the building's loca=on and structure,

op=mizing air =ghtness to reduce unwanted heat loss or gain.

7. Ven6la6on:
- Whole House Ven=la=on System:

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 - Air Distribu=on Circula=on Type: Forced air hea=ng ductwork with 45 min/day
opera=on schedule.

- Explana6on: The forced air system ensures controlled ven=la=on, improving indoor air
quality and contribu=ng to energy efficiency.

8. Hea6ng Cooling System:

- Main:
- Type 1: Baseboards, hydronic, and plenum heaters
- Type 2: Air condi=oning
- Cooling:
- Start Month: December
- End Month: February
- Design Month: January
- Air Condi=oning:
- Equipment: Central split system

- Explana6on: The dual hea=ng system and central split system for cooling cater to
different climate needs, offering flexibility and energy efficiency.

9. Domes6c Hot Water:

- Energy Source: Electricity
- Tank Type: Instantaneous

- Explana6on: The choice of an instantaneous electric water hea=ng system aligns with the
project's focus on energy efficiency and sustainability.

In summary, each design choice is carefully made to op=mize energy efficiency, comfort, and
sustainability. The specifica=ons reflect a balance between insula=on, temperature control,
ven=la=on, and appliance efficiency, all contribu=ng to the overall goal of crea=ng an
energy-efficient and environmentally conscious living space.

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7. PV SYSTEMS

The conclusion and final design choice for the PV units are excep=onal, with a
recommenda=on toward achieving a zero-emission building.

PV Units Informa6on:

Roof Size and DC System Size:

- A roof size of 64 sqm on the northern side allows for a DC system size of 9.5 kW.

Array Characteris6cs:
- The array type is fixed (open rack), ensuring standard condi=ons for modelling. System
losses are set at 14.08%, and a 20-degree =lt is maintained for op=mal performance.

Energy Produc6on:
- Under these specifica=ons, the solar panels are es=mated to provide up to 12,746
kWh/year.

Considering that the total energy consump=on of the house is less than 12,746 kWh/year,
the use of these PV units ensures that the home is ul=mately zero-emission, contribu=ng
significantly to sustainability goals.

In summary, the chosen PV units, with their specific characteris=cs and installa=on
approach, are tailored to meet the energy needs of the house while ensuring op=mal
efficiency. The detailed calcula=ons and considera=ons, such as the roof size, system losses,
and =lt angle, contribute to the accurate interpreta=on of data and the robustness of the
conclusion towards achieving a zero-energy building.

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8. CONCLUSION

Embarking on the journey to create a sustainable dwelling at 3 Fi%h Avenue, Brunswick, the
"Zero Energy Sustainable House Delivery" project stands as a testament to innova=on and
unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. Within a 484-square-meter canvas,
the two-bedroom, one-bathroom dwelling evolves into a beacon of conscious living.

The project's founda=on lies in a deep understanding of the property, leveraging site analysis
and design strategies aligned with RESCODE regula=ons. Zoning strategies, floorplan
considera=ons, and stringent compliance measures contribute to the crea=on of a holis=c
and energy-efficient living space.

Implemen=ng advanced technologies and sustainable systems elevates the project's

environmental impact. The Tankulator analysis underscores efficient rainwater harves=ng,
reducing dependence on mains water. The BESS report aims for an 80% overall ra=ng,
marked by improvements in waste management, transport, IEQ, water efficiency, and
energy efficiency. FirstRate5 enhancements focus on energy efficiency, culmina=ng in an
impressive 8-star ra=ng.

Me=culous planning extends to the PV Systems, tailored to the property's unique

characteris=cs. With a roof size of 64 sqm and a DC system size of 9.5 kW, the photovoltaic
array provides up to 12,746 kWh/year, ensuring zero-emission energy consump=on.

The intricate dance of energy modelling using the HOT 2000 so%ware unfolds with detailed
inputs for ceiling, main floor, wall and floor construc=on, temperatures, base loads, natural
air infiltra=on, ven=la=on, hea=ng, cooling systems, and domes=c hot water. This thorough
breakdown reflects a deep understanding of energy dynamics and an unyielding dedica=on
to sustainability.

In conclusion, 3 Fi%h Avenue, Brunswick, emerges as a model of sustainable living.

Me=culous design, advanced technologies, and a holis=c approach to environmental
considera=ons create a residence that minimizes its ecological footprint, selng a new
standard for conscious and eco-friendly living. This project serves as an inspiring example of
how innova=on and sustainability can harmonize, providing a blueprint for future residences
that seamlessly integrate with nature for a brighter, greener future.

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9. REFERENCE LIST

1. Bureau of Meteorology. (n.d.). Windrose and Sun Path Data. Retrieved from
[hpp://www.bom.gov.au/]

2. Tankulator. (n.d.). Comprehensive Water Efficiency Analysis. Retrieved from

[hpps://renew.org.au/tankulator/ques=onnaire.php]

3. Building Environmental Sustainability Score (BESS) Report. Retrieved from

[hpps://bess.net.au/]

4. FirstRate5 Ra=ng System.

5. Photovoltaic (PV) Systems Informa=on. Retrieved from [hpps://pvwaps.nrel.gov/]

6. HOT 2000 So%ware Documenta=on.

7. RESCODE Regula=ons.

8. Sustainable Urban Planning Principles.

9. Australian Building Codes Board. (n.d.). NatHERS FirstRate5 Technical Note. Retrieved
from [hpps://www.nathers.gov.au/]

10. Energy Efficiency for Appliances. (n.d.). Retrieved from [hpps://www.dcceew.gov.au/]

11. Na=onal Construc=on Code (NCC). (n.d.). Retrieved from [Australian Building Codes
Board website]

12. Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA). (n.d.). PV System Sizing and Components.
Retrieved from [hpps://arena.gov.au/]

13. Department of the Environment and Energy. (n.d.). Na=onwide House Energy Ra=ng
Scheme (NatHERS) - Accredited So%ware. Retrieved from [hpps://www.nathers.gov.au/]

14. Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria. (n.d.). Tankulator User Guide. Retrieved from
[hpps://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/]

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