It’s safe to say that few socio-economic forces are set to have a bigger impact on the world of business and construction in the coming few decades than green energy and approaches to greater energy efficiency. As we continue to experience both economic as well as social calls for greater expansion of both green energy and greater energy efficiency, companies and governments are beginning to take notice. Australia’s Parliament has already affirmed its support for greater energy efficiency and green energy solutions, and more and more companies have responded in kind. If you are to keep up with these changes in social and corporate progress, you’re going to want to do everything in your power to make your next building project more energy efficient.
This, in turn, will frequently require filling out a Section J report. That said, you may not have practice in filling out this type or report, let alone carrying out the kind of practices for which it advocates. Thankfully, the best energy efficiency experts across Australia are ready to help.
What Is Section J?
First and foremost, it’s worth asking – just what is a Section J report, anyway? Section J refers to a specific section of the National Construction Code that is dedicated to that aforementioned commitment towards greater energy efficiency. These regulations require businesses to provide evidence that new Class 2 or Class 9 structures – commonly associated with retail outlets, office buildings, and apartment complexes – are built with this intention in mind. As such, it is of the utmost importance to plan your new structure such that it is in keeping with Australia’s new focus on energy efficiency as laid out by Section J. It is thus advisable to hire experts who understand Australia’s building codes and the latest energy efficiency options out there so as to ensure that your next structure is indeed up to code.
Required Section J Information
A typical Section J report can require information on any number of different pertinent building and energy topics, some of the most common of which being:
- The building fabrics used, particularly those in the roof and ceiling, as you will need to make sure that they meet the minimum total-R requirements
- BCA glazing allowances, ensuring that the amount of glazing used in a structure will be enough to minimise heat loss
- The manner in which your proposed building will utilise means such as cross ventilation and energy efficient fans and coolers to cool the building
- In keeping with that, you’ll also be asked to provide similar energy efficiency information about the type of air conditioning unit you wish to use
- You will likewise need to report the energy efficiency of any artificial power and lighting apparatuses, including those used for interior as well as exterior lighting and power generation methods such as solar power
- Evidence that your building has access to any maintenance supplies or services needed to keep your energy units in good working order
The best experts in Section J requirements can help look over your building plans and ensure that everything is in order before you submit your proposal.
