Expansion Trials

NatHERS for existing homes trial

To ensure energy ratings for existing homes under NatHERS are effective the new systems and processes will be trialled ahead of launch. 

NatHERS will be running a trial in partnership with the CSIRO, on behalf of all states and territories from late 2024 into 2025.

There will be two trial streams:

  • Core stream – where a trial assessor completes all elements of the assessment, including undertaking the NatHERS for existing homes training, collecting data on-site, and using the trial assessment tool to produce a home energy rating.

  • Scale stream – where property valuers collect data on-site and team with NatHERS Accredited Assessors to complete the assessment off-site and produce a rating. 

Both streams support innovation in data collection and assessment by using mobile devices for collecting data in homes and the cloud-based energy rating tool developed by CSIRO called ‘AccuRate Enterprise’.

The core stream will test assessor training, assessment processes and assurance elements required to launch NatHERS for existing homes.

The scale stream will see banks partner with property valuer data collectors and current NatHERS assessors for new homes to test delivering existing home energy assessments at scale. 

Core stream trial EOI - closed

NatHERS received more than 150 applications from individuals wanting to take part in the core stream existing homes trial. 

Applicants will undertake training before conducting up to 20 trial home energy assessments across Australia, including in regional areas. Feedback will help improve how NatHERS for existing homes is designed and delivered.   

A diverse range of applications were received from:  

  • individuals new to the field  
  • professionals with broader property or construction experience  
  • accredited NatHERS, Residential Efficiency Scorecard and Energy Efficiency Rating assessors.   

Trial participants will help shape the future of a significant national energy efficiency initiative and benefit from:    

  • fully subsidised training  
  • funded real-world experience conducting existing home energy assessments  
  • a streamlined pathway to becoming an accredited NatHERS existing homes assessor. 

The Expression of Interest for this trial closed on Wednesday 27 November 2024.

Scale stream trial EOI – closed 

The scale stream trial Expression of Interest closed on Monday 11:59 PM (AEDT) 2 December 2024.