ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: Member for Orange Andrew Gee said a number of properties across the city are set to benefit from environmentally friendly technology. Photo: NADINE MORTON 0416nmenergy1 or 2
THE latest in environmentally friendly construction methods will be added to a number of new homes and units across Orange.
The NSW Land and Housing Corporation properties in Matthews Avenue and Dalton Street will incorporate a number of energy efficient regulations to increase the thermal comfort for residents.
Each property will rate between 6 and 6.5 on the nationwide house energy rating scheme (NatHERS) which rates homes between zero and 10 depending on their thermal comfort.
Member for Orange Andrew Gee said the new technology will be a benefit to residents and the environment with the rankings above the average family home.
“It’s thinking ahead for ways to conserve energy especially given the announcement last week about increasing powers costs, it will be a welcome addition for the residents,” he said
“These buildings will be insulated and will have draught proof windows and doors to help maintain warmth in winter.
“To provide the most effective cooling in summer shading will be installed.”
Mr Gee said water tanks will also be installed at the properties for garden watering and flushing toilets and solar panels are in place to heat water.
Despite the new properties receiving the environmental and cost saving benefits, Mr Gee did not say if older public housing properties would be retro-fitted with the environmental features or if they would become standard in all new properties.
“I’m not in a position to say these will be a standard addition but they set a new benchmark,” he said.
The properties are due for completion by the end of June this year.
nadine.morton@ruralpress.com