Energy efficiency is reshaping the way Australians approach home renovations, and the shift goes far beyond the surface. Across the country, builders, suppliers and energy assessors are reporting a marked change in priorities as homeowners place performance, comfort and long term savings at the top of their renovation checklist.
What’s driving the shift?
This move toward energy efficiency is being driven by three key factors, rising power bills, national sustainability commitments and the latest requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC 2022). The updated code sets higher minimum energy standards for new homes and major renovations, and that alone has pushed many homeowners to reassess how well their homes perform. As a result, rather than focusing only on style, more people are now seeking upgrades that improve thermal comfort, reduce long term operating costs and future proof their homes.
Popular upgrades for modern Australian homes
Some of the most common energy efficient upgrades include
• double or triple glazing
• high performance insulation
• solar and battery systems
• heat pump hot water units
• thermally broken door and window frames
• smart shading, ventilation and passive design strategies
Additionally, builders say clients are turning up with more technical knowledge than ever before. Many now ask detailed questions about R values, U values and air leakage rates, topics that rarely came up a few years ago. Meanwhile, window suppliers are seeing a strong surge in demand as families replace ageing aluminium frames with modern, energy efficient systems. Furthermore, interior designers report growing interest in sustainable materials, LED lighting and low energy appliances that support the broader push for better home performance.
This trend is shaping both new builds and retrofits. More homeowners now understand that poor thermal performance can affect a property’s value, while a 7 star or higher energy rating is quickly becoming a selling point in its own right. Consequently, buyers recognise that a more efficient home offers comfort, durability and long term savings.
A cultural shift toward smarter homes
Ultimately, the renewed focus on energy efficiency reflects a cultural shift in Australian housing. Homeowners still want spaces that look good, but they also expect their homes to work harder for them. With energy costs uncertain and governments signalling even stricter standards ahead, demand for energy efficient renovations is set to strengthen as we move toward 2026.