The International Energy Agency Solar Heating and Cooling (IEA SHC) Programme has released the four projects in contention for the 2022 SHC Solar Award. Along with nominees from France, Namibia and South Africa, Australia’s ‘My Home’ project has been shortlisted.
The SHC Solar Award is given to an individual, company, or private/public institution that shows outstanding leadership or achievements in the field of solar heating and cooling and supports the work of the IEA SHC. This year’s award will recognise a solar heating or cooling project that reduces energy use and costs in social housing.
‘My Home’ is a philanthropic developer that brings together government, church, private sector, and community housing providers to deliver projects using a public private partnership model. Their North Fremantle project is building 18 affordable, long-term occupancy homes for older women who are experiencing homelessness.
Michelle Blakeley, Founder and Chair of My Home Australasia explains “This is the first project for ‘My Home’ and is proof of concept for future landowners, property developers and governments. Even with a low construction budget and small building footprints, we can design and deliver high performance, comfortable and enjoyable housing for people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
“Importantly, the benefits of good design are ongoing with nil or very low energy bills for residents and excellent thermal comfort throughout the year.”
Each house is energy efficient using solar PV panels and passive solar (Passivhaus) design principles, providing comfort to residents in a hot climate. The houses are also water efficient and include a rainwater tank supply. Fundamental to the house designs are comfortable, joyful, and refreshing living spaces with each site including shared facilities – outdoor gathering spaces, storage, vegetable gardens, and car parking.
Ken Guthrie, APVI member and SHC Award Committee Chair notes the high standard that the project achieved.
“My Home houses demonstrate that high-quality construction, thermal comfort, and energy efficiency are achievable in compact, low-cost housing and are providing these benefits to social housing residents.”
Ms Blakeley appreciates the honour of being included on the award shortlist, stating: “It is a proud feeling to know that our little homes are recognised globally as exemplars of good design. The builder, our solar supplier, Positive Energy, and architect have worked closely together to design the most efficient energy system including the framework for the panels which also act as a roof for the veranda of each house.”
The 2022 SHC Solar Award will be presented by award committee chair, Ken Guthrie, during the EuroSun Conference in Kassel, Germany, on 26-29 September 2022.
