The Australian Building Code Board (ABCB) will include energy efficiency measures for commercial buildings (Class 5-9) in BCA2006 as well as enhance the existing provisions to a nominal 5-star energy performance level for housing.

In making its decision on the housing measures, the ABCB noted that at least four states and territories, representing around half of housing starts, will have adopted 5-star energy efficiency measures in 2006 should they not be included in the BCA and was concerned that this could impact on national consistency.

Support for the enhanced housing measures was provided by three independent studies that confirmed their cost-effectiveness and the Board also noted the Greenhouse dividends.not be included in the BCA and was concerned that this could impact on national consistency.

Support for the enhanced housing measures was provided by three independent studies that confirmed their cost-effectiveness and the Board also noted the Greenhouse dividends.

As some industry bodies are still questioning a number of the cost assumptions, the ABCB has invited them to provide any material for further consideration.

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