Another new housing estate in Western Australia will be trialing solar and battery storage – but this time in a strata development.
White Gum Valley, Western Australia’s first residential project to achieve national recognition through One Planet Living, was officially launched yesterday.
All WGV homes will be designed to attain a seven star NatHERS rating for energy efficiency.
Developers Landcorp aim to reduce grid energy consumption by 60 per cent ( based on average Perth consumption) for the community as a whole, and 100 per cent in homes take advantage of the WGV Sustainability Rebate Package.
More than 150 people will live in the 2-hectare estate; but without the feeling of being crammed into a small area due to the estate’s design.
A unique solar power and battery storage technology research trial will occur in a shared strata setting at WGV’s Gen Y Demonstration Housing Project.
The cost of installing solar power systems on strata developments usually falls on investors while giving the tenant the benefit of cheap electricity. However, the ABC reports Curtin University, Landcorp and the CSIRO have partnered to develop a system that will benefit investors and tenants.
Under the model, the solar power and battery storage system are owner-managed by the strata manager. When an investor rents out an apartment, the tenant pays their electricity bill to the strata; which will offset the strata costs.
In addition to solar panels on all dwellings, the Design Guidelines for WGV also require homes to feature items such as solar hot water systems or heat pumps.
Other energy efficiency measures for buildings in the estate include climate responsive design and landscaping, energy efficient appliances and lighting, plus low energy space heating and cooling systems.
A Cooperative Research Centre for Low Carbon Living research program will monitor energy use and technology performance.
WGV also aims to achieve a 70 per cent reduction in current mains water consumption through community bore and stormwater irrigation, rainwater harvesting and climate-appropriate plantings.
“The problems of a growing population, competition for water supply, power generation, housing affordability and social alienation are all issues addressed by this project,” said WA Lands Minister Terry Redman.
“Once built, WGV will showcase a groundbreaking house designed specifically for future generations, the latest energy, water and climate-responsive initiatives and unique community building programs.”
White Gum Valley is located three kilometres from the heart of Fremantle, next to the Royal Fremantle golf course.
Another housing development in Western Australia trialing solar + battery energy storage is Alkimos Beach.
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