More than 200 eco-friendly homeowners will throw open their doors on Sunday and give away their sustainability secrets.
The annual Sustainable House Day aims to showcase the best of innovative green new builds as well as renovations undertaken to make buildings more comfortable and energy efficient.
Run by Renew, a not-for-profit organisation that supports people to live sustainably, the day provides the opportunity for interested people to visit 150 homes in person around Australia and another 80 online to glean insights.
Renew CEO Helen Oakey said homeowners would offer in-person tours, giving the community the chance to learn firsthand.
Ms Oakey said with electricity prices set to rise by up to nine percent from July 1 and homes responsible for over half of Australia’s built environment emissions, this year’s focus on retrofitting and renovation could not be more timely.
“Visitors will see firsthand how homeowners are embracing practical solutions like insulation, efficient electric appliances, solar, and batteries to reduce costs and emissions.”
She said the day aimed to inspire communities with achievable ways to reduce energy bills, get off gas, and be more climate-resilient, all while being in a comfortable home environment.
“I am always overwhelmed by the generosity of spirit that happens each Sustainable House Day as everyday members of the community take the time to open their homes to others in the community.
“When people see what’s possible in their own community, they’re more likely to act – and that’s where real change begins.”
Ms Oakey said this year, electric vehicles would also be featured at select open homes.
She said homeowners and EV drivers will share how they’re “running their cars off the sun” and integrating vehicles into all-electric household systems.
“Open home tours will take place across the country allowing visitors to see a diverse range of properties.”
Ms Oakey said Australians spent 90 percent of their time indoors, with two-thirds of it at home.
She said homes now accounted for over half of built environment emissions and roughly 24 percent of electricity use nationwide.
“Poorly performing buildings are driving up bills, emissions, and pressure on the energy grid.”
Explore the locations of homes featured in Sustainable House Day.
