Australia is growing increasingly climate-conscious, and evidence of this green shift is virtually everywhere. From local council districts like us here in Mildura investing in clean energy to businesses and households installing solar panel systems on their properties, everyday we’re taking steps towards diminishing our individual and collective carbon footprints. 

Much like the rest of the country, Victorians are increasingly thinking about what it would take to create zero net carbon (ZNC) homes – both as a method of fighting soaring energy costs but also as part of an increased focus on the environmental and ecological concerns triggered by the ongoing effects of climate change.

This piece digs into how and why more ZNC homes are being built across Victoria. Read on for more information on this green shift that’s changing the face of both metropolitan suburbs and regional townships. 

1. Environmental Awareness and Responsibility

Arguably the primary impetus for investing in ZNC initiatives is to fulfil our own personal responsibility to protect and conserve our state’s natural assets. For regional Victorian homeowners, reducing their carbon footprint is a way to ‘do their part’ in preserving the health of local ecosystems, be it by opting for renewable energy sources or limiting the amount of household waste that goes directly to local landfills.

Sustainable measures walk hand-in-hand with environmental awareness and responsibility, which is why Victorians are being advised to invest in quality solar panels that are strategically installed and optimised to perform well in our temperate local climate. Working with property developers who incorporate carbon-conscious design factors like solar orientation and thermal mass can aid in developing new ZNC home builds. If you’re looking to install solar panels on an existing structure, however, working with dedicated solar installers can aid in ensuring that your solar installation is optimised for long-term returns. 

Solar panel systems are foundational to maintaining a zero net carbon lifestyle, however there is more to ZNC homes than being designed to require minimal power. Part of upholding our responsibility to protect Australia’s bushlands is to invest in multifaceted carbon-combating strategies. The more varied our approach, the more dynamic the cost and lifestyle benefits we can experience for ourselves and our households.

2. Financial Incentives and Long-Term Savings

Yes, there are more benefits to living a ZNC lifestyle than just feeling good about your impact on  the world. Of course, there are environmental benefits but for many Victorians, the financial incentives in building ZNC homes plays a huge factor too. Firstly, the Victorian government offers several rebates and incentives for Victorians who include solar panels or other types of renewable energy sources in their homes. These add-ons made available through programs like the Victorian Energy Upgrade scheme help homeowners recover the costs of building or retrofitting a ZNC home.

Additionally, installing solar panels and energy efficient appliances helps cut the cost of power bills for thousands of Victorian households. In the long run, these are really good investments as it will save households a lot on energy costs whilst also being a super environmentally friendly choice. With energy prices always on the rise, having a house that could completely eliminate those irritating bills is just too good for some to resist.

3. Advancements in Sustainable Technology

There have also been some major technological advancements in sustainability within the past few years which now means more ZNC homes are rolling out across Victoria. In the past, one could only get a more energy-efficient home by making significant compromises to comfort or aesthetics – but not anymore! The ZNC homes of today are anything but boring. Thanks to the vast improvements made in building materials and insulation over the years, we can now build homes that are gorgeous and sustainable! This shift in itself is an awesome case of form and function coming together.

For example, smart home systems reduce energy waste to optimise electricity usage and provide a more comfortable (quality) living space. Meanwhile, other elements like high-performing windows that are combined with newer types of insulation materials and beautiful energy-efficient appliances help homes achieve net zero carbon status. These advancements make it that much easier and more appealing for Victorians to build homes that align with their sustainability goals without compromising on aesthetics and lifestyle.

4. Resale Value and Market Appeal

Then, there's also the consideration of resale and market appeal. After years of uncharacteristically high growth inspired in part by the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of digital technologies allowing for remote work, Victoria’s regional property market is now finally experiencing a housing slowdown. Properties are still being sold at record prices across Sunraysia, however, with house hunters seeking sustainable builds in particular.

With more Victorians joining in the shift towards ZNC lifestyles and homes, it only makes sense that building or retro-fitting a home to be ZNC can boost that property’s market value. Today’s buyers are looking for homes that reduce energy bills now and carbon footprint tomorrow.

Any regional property that’s on the market needs to stand out to attract offers and with a ZNC home the good news is that you’re already halfway there. Not to mention, ZNC properties are also increasingly seen as premium properties in the market. They promise lower utility bills, a smaller carbon footprint and support the wider trend for more sustainable living. This desirability can translate into higher resale values, making ZNC homes a smart investment for Victorians.

5. Government Support and Regulations

Government relief also played a role in the increase of ZNC homes throughout Victoria. The state government has been particularly aggressive in promoting sustainability, developing numerous programs and offering incentives (and regulations) to promote it. A classic example of this is the Victorian Solar Homes Program subsidising solar panels (as well as batteries and hot water systems) in homes.

More than that though, there is an increasing move towards tougher building regulations with a focus on more energy efficient and sustainable homes. These rules are all built around making new homes compliant with higher environmental standards, so of course they naturally align with the principles of zero net carbon living. In the end, ZNC homes could increasingly be the rule rather than exception in Victoria as regulations keep getting tighter.

6. Community and Social Influence

Last but not least, the rise of ZNC homes in Victoria can be attributed to the power of social influence. As more and more people adopt sustainable practices and build ZNC homes, it has a domino effect, encouraging others to do the same. This sense of community can be a strong motivator for individuals who might be undecided about building a ZNC home. Knowing that their neighbours are also committed to reducing their carbon footprint can inspire more people to take the leap if they’ve been on the fence about it. 

As you can see there are lots of different reasons for the shift towards more and more ZNC homes in Victoria. Lower energy bills, smaller carbon footprint or higher resale value — ZNC homes work for all. In a state as green-minded as Victoria, it’s clear that zero net carbon homes are here to stay.

Looking to build a ZNC home? Now is the perfect time to do so. Partner with local property developers and solar installers today to ensure that your modern Victorian home is poised to support your own zero net carbon lifestyle.