7 Star Energy Ratings & Whole of Home Assessments
7 STAR ENERGY RATINGS& Whole of Home Assessments
Better-performing homes begin with a considered assessment.
Empire Thermal Group provides accurate 7 Star Energy Ratings and Whole of Home Assessments for residential projects across Australia.
We work with architects, building designers, builders, developers and homeowners to identify clear, buildable pathways towards compliance.
What is a 7 Star Energy Rating?
A 7 Star Energy Rating evaluates the thermal performance of a home’s proposed design and estimates how much artificial heating and cooling may be required to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
The assessment is completed using NatHERS-accredited software and considers the home’s local climate, orientation, layout, insulation, construction materials, glazing and external shading.
The result is expressed as a rating from zero to ten stars. A higher rating indicates stronger thermal performance and less reliance on mechanical heating and cooling throughout the year.
NCC 2022 increased the minimum thermal-performance requirement for new homes to the equivalent of 7 stars. Achieving this standard can support improved comfort, reduced energy demand and a more efficient home. Requirements may vary depending on the project’s location, approval date and applicable regulatory pathway.
What is a Whole of Home Assessment?
A Whole of Home Assessment evaluates the estimated energy performance of a home’s major fixed appliances and services, together with the contribution of any solar panels and battery storage.
Unlike the 7 Star Energy Rating, which focuses on the home’s thermal shell, a Whole of Home Assessment considers heating and cooling systems, hot water, lighting, cooking appliances, pool and spa pumps, solar generation and batteries.
The result is expressed as a score out of 100 or higher. A higher score indicates stronger overall energy performance, while a score of 100 represents a net-zero energy value home within the NatHERS framework.
Introduced through NCC 2022, Whole of Home requirements help ensure that the building design and selected energy systems work together to reduce energy use, lower emissions and support a more efficient home. The requirements applying to an individual project may vary depending on its location and approval pathway.
THERMAL PERFORMANCE
More than a compliance number
Achieving a 7 Star Rating or Whole of Home Assessment is not simply about adding more insulation or specifying expensive products.
The strongest outcomes come from understanding how the entire building works together. Orientation, glazing, shading, internal layout, construction materials and insulation all influence the final result.
Our role is to identify the elements affecting performance and recommend practical improvements that support compliance without unnecessarily compromising the design intent.
What We Assess:
Orientation and Layout
How the home is positioned on the site and how internal spaces respond to the local climate.
Windows and Glazing
The size, location, orientation, frame type and thermal performance of windows and glazed doors.
Insulation
The proposed insulation levels throughout the ceilings, roof, external walls and floors.
Construction Materials
The thermal properties of the proposed wall, floor, roof and ceiling systems.
Shading
The influence of eaves, verandahs, balconies, neighbouring buildings and other external shading elements.
Ventilation and Air Movement
How openings, ventilation strategies and uncontrolled air movement may affect thermal performance.
Our Process
From Plans to Compliance, Made Simple.
Our considered approach keeps the assessment process clear, coordinated and focused on achieving the right outcome.
01 — Send Your Plans
Submit your architectural plans & documentation
We identify your assessment requirements
Receive a clear, no-obligation quote
02 — We Assess
Detailed energy efficiency assessment
Review against relevant compliance requirements
Practical, cost-effective recommendations
03 — We Deliver
Accurate & comprehensive reporting
Required documentation & certification prepared
Clear reports ready to progress your project
04 — We Support
Responsive technical guidance
Support with plan changes & revisions
Assistance through approval & beyond
Providing accurate building performance assessments and practical compliance solutions for residential and commercial projects across Australia.
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