A recent report by the Australian Glass and Glazing Association (AGAA) shows householders how to acheive five star energy efficiency for less than $2,000. Such an investment will save around $800 per year on energy bills, paying for itself in two and a half years. Energy efficient houses use 60 per cent less energy than the average suburban house.
Given that the median price for first home buyers has fallen 4.2 per cent in the December quarter, the AGGA says that governments should encourage buyers to invest the difference in energy efficiency. "Should the proposed energy efficiency requirements not be adopted, you have to ask, ‘Who shoulders the burden?’" said ian Koochew, executive director of the Association.