Zero emissions house conversion: brunswick residence

Case Study:

Wave Consulting designed and delivered a zero emissions house by combining energy efficiency, transition away from gas (cooktop, heating and hot water) and new photovoltaics and batteries.

  • Net zero home

  • Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung lands, Victoria


Key facts

 

House now runs on solar and battery 95% of the time

House has transitioned away from gas

 

The problem

This 1920s Brunswick residence, a weatherboard Californian Bungalow, required renovations to enhance comfort and energy efficiency. Traditional Californian Bungalows are not typically known for these qualities, prompting the need for updates.

The goal was to make the home more comfortable while delivering a net zero home.

 
A Californian Bungalow weatherboard home with a brick front porch and Australian native front garden.

The solution

As part of this project we:  

  1. researched and reviewed other sustainable houses 

  2. completed the financial modelling 

  3. engaged with suppliers and researchers 

  4. worked with a variety of installers to implement the best system.  

We know that the most challenging part of transitioning to zero emissions is the heating and cooling of a house, so finding the best integrated approach in systems is key.

The house design incorporated several energy efficiency solutions to enhance sustainability. It moved away from gas for the cooktop, heating, and hot water systems, opting instead for electric alternatives that reduce carbon emissions. The introduction of new photovoltaics allows the home to harness solar energy, while batteries enable storage of this energy for later use.

 

The outcome

The new design has lowered utility bills and contributes to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. The home is a more comfortable living space and has prioritised energy conservation and removed the use of fossil fuels. The house now runs on solar and battery power 95% of the time and uses ZERO GAS.

Plans for the house include extending to the incorporation of zero emissions transport by adopting an electric car!

 

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