What is BASIX in New South Wales?
If you’re developing a residential property, you may have come across the term ‘BASIX’ referred to when discussing certain energy and water usage requirements of new homes and dwellings.
The Building Sustainability Index (BASIX), pronounced “bass-icks”, is an index that was rolled out across New South Wales in 2004 that is designed to build a more sustainable future. It aims to reduce potable water usage and encourage water recycling and rainwater harvesting. It also aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and the laws apply to all residential houses and dwellings who apply for development.
What does BASIX apply to?
BASIX applies to all new residential dwellings constructed moving forward and any additions or renovations to homes that cost more than $50,000. BASIX also applies to any swimming pools with a capacity of more than 40,000 litres.
BASIX for Water Conservation
An example of a BASIX requirement includes the installation of a rainwater tank to a property in all new residential development areas.
The system aims at a benchmarking of water use at 90,340 litres per person per year, which is based on the average water consumption prior to BASIX being mandated.
An excellent, and mandated, option for reducing your household potable water consumption is installing a rain water tank. By capturing and utilising rainwater inside and outside your home, you can not only reduce your mains water consumption, saving money, but you can also contribute to reducing the amount of water dispersed into your local drainage system during periods of rainfall.
Once you’ve made your initial investment and installed a water tank, it can easily and cost effectively be maintained, saving you money in the long term.
The rainwater you collect can be used for not only drinking, but for showers, watering the garden, washing clothes, and more.
BASIX Energy Use and Conservation
Prior to BASIX being introduced, energy consumption that generated an average of 3,292 kilograms of CO2 per person per year was benchmarked as a goal to reduce energy usage.
To assist in reducing energy use Carbon emissions, the following systems are affected:
- Hot water systems
- Appliances for heating and cooling
- Home ventilation
- Home lighting
- Pools and spas
- Alternative energy sources and more.
BASIX for Thermal Comfort
Requirements for thermal comfort of a residence’s occupants includes reducing heat loss via double glazing, using insulation, and other appliances that result in reduced need for energy used to heat and cool the home.
What are the outcomes of BASIX?
Did you know BASIX is one of the most robust sustainability plans being implemented across the entire country of Australia?
Since 2004, more than 460,000 homes have been developed in alignment with the BASIX regulations and have to date saved more than
- 281 Billion litres of water
- 8.8 Million Tonnes of CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)
Now you’re across the basics of BASIX, you can learn more about our quality custom made steel water tanks that are suitable for BASIX mandated water storage, and get your obligation free quote. We also have an installation guide to cover off any questions you may have regarding how a tank is installed, and a colour chart to help you choose a colour to match your Colorbond Fence, roof or raised garden bed.