Many tend to assume that building a sustainable, healthy and energy efficient home costs a small fortune, putting it beyond the reach of most home buyers. 

A good property design does not have to cost the earth or the bank and independent property valuer Chris Egan argued that energy efficient homes earn a premium. 

“In Canberra, you can’t sell a house that isn’t energy rated and selling an energy efficient home gets you a premium in the market,” Mr Egan said. 

“The market in NSW when we don’t have these ratings, means that people don’t seem to differentiate with houses that do have a higher level of insulation or glazing. 

“If a rating system was compulsory to NSW, it would be beneficial in the long term savings and to the environment.” 

Building designer Glen Sewell said that while Wagga is heading in an energy efficient housing direction, the value in the local market becomes divided as it’s not an absolute requirement. 

“I think it’s a little bit divided whether the market in Wagga sees value in energy efficiency and whether the consumers are willing to pay extra,” he said. 

“Personally, I believe that people should build energy efficient homes and this would need to be supported in a combined effort from those who sell energy efficient products like solar panels and housing industry experts. 

“The market probably indicates a need for more education and evaluation about energy efficiency in Wagga.” 

Energy efficient products do not just mean placing solar panels on the roof. It can also be installing double glazing windows and energy efficient appliances, like refrigerators, microwaves and washing machines. 

However, Mr Sewell said that a building’s design and structural positioning is often more important. 

“Having the main living area facing north and building a design that picks up the daily winds with cross ventilation and solar panels, as well as high star and well rated tap ware and toilets,” he said. 

“Double glazing in our climate is a big one, we have hot sun and cold winters and therefore we generally have to artificially heat our homes, with single glazing windows there’s opportunity for the warm heat to escape.” 

The building designer argued that there is a “direct link” between energy efficiency and a better quality of life. 

“If you enter a room that has natural bright light and ventilates well, that’s a better feeling space than say a dark and musky room,” he said. 

While the upfront costs may seem dear, both agreed that the long term savings outweigh the initial expenses. 

Mr Sewell advised consumers to choose energy efficient products under guidance and engage with a professional building designer if wanting to achieve an energy rating home.