Energy-saving measures that can save thousands of dollars a year are within reach of the average homeowner and are relatively simple to install, according to university researcher Chiara Pacifici.
Ms Pacifici and her partner Alex Bruce had more than 100 visitors when they opened their Leederville townhouse to the public to promote Sustainable House Day in Perth on September 12.
The day was designed to show people that it was possible to build or retrofit homes with devices that helped the environment and reduced electricity and water use.
Mr Bruce and Ms Pacific, who works at Curtin University’s sustainability policy institute, installed a solar power system on the roof of their townhouse and planted waterwise native gardens.
“The townhouse was built in the early ’80s and is one of 18 townhouses situated in a strata complex,” Ms Pacifici said.
“A 2.6 kW solar power generating system feeds the property with approx 12 units of electricity per day.
“Our average daily consumption, with two occupants in the home, is around six units per day.
“On August 1, we began supplying excess energy back into the grid at a rate of 47 cents per unit.
“It is expected that around 60 per cent of the solar power will be exported with the remaining 40 per cent consumed within the house.
“At this rate, base calculations have forecast an achievable income of around $1603 per annum from this solar power generating system.”
Ms Pacifici said it was not complicated to incorporate energy-saving systems in Perth homes and they would pay for themselves over time.
For more information, visit livinggreener.gov.au