Tropical Houses for Tropical Townsville
Community Voices Mayoral candidate Jenny Stirling today announced a Community Voices council will make it a priority to improve the energy efficiency of Townsville houses. This will include evaluating and embracing the recommendations of the Energy Efficient House Design for Tropical Queensland report.
Townsville and Thuringowa are experiencing a building boom, but a lot homes are not being built with recognition that we live in tropical North Queensland. Some don't have insulation, some have dark coloured roofs, and some don't allow roof mounted solar hot water systems. [1][2][3]
"Having a white roof can reduce the temperature of the ceiling by up to 20 degrees over having a dark roof, and this can be the difference between home where the air conditioning can't keep up, and one which barely needs air conditioning."
"The Council and the builders are aware of this but existing regulations neglect this essential part of the equation. It is the duty of care of the Council and builders to make sure their home buyers are fully informed, and not sold concrete ovens." [4]
"There are many commonsense solutions that can deliver a triple bottom line on climate change; more comfort in our homes, a lower electricity bill and reducing our greenhouse gas emmissions. Our Councils can help us all do the right thing.
" It is very important that we change our way now as well as fixing the decisions of the past. This means revisiting existing homes, installing insulation, repainting the roof if necessary, and removing covenants which prohibit solar water and power systems. Investors should also be encouraged to modify their properties in the best interests of their tenants and the environment. "
"We're sure many recent home buyers would feel betrayed if they knew they were sold a cut-price house, which will cost them dearly in the long run."
The Council needs to hit the street and actively inform home owners in Townsville about these options, and engage them in improving the efficiency and liveability of their homes.
"Individuals should also investigate their options including roof insulation and painting their roofs white. Often their out-of-pocket costs will turn into savings quite quickly."
[1]http://www.lgp.qld.gov.au
[2]http://www.townsvilleforums
[3]http://www.lbl.gov/Science
[4]http://www.townsville.qld
Media contact: Jenny Stirling Mobile: 04 170 123 11