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The Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability

The Honourable Kate Jones

Saturday, February 13, 2010

GREEN TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT SHOWS STAR CREDENTIALS

A townhouse complex at Redbank Plains is the first in South East Queensland to meet tough new environmental requirements for the maximum six star energy rating in new residential buildings.

Climate Change and Sustainability Minister Kate Jones officially opened the Amarco complex of 18 townhouses in Bruce Street today.

She said the townhouses included electrical switches that indicate when off-peak power is available and a master switch that turns off all standby appliances when you leave the house.

“This innovative development shows that building sustainably to energy efficient standards doesn’t need to be expensive or impact on lifestyle,” Ms Jones said.

“Being clean and green can be affordable, stylish and still allow residents to enjoy the great Queensland climate that is the envy of Australia.

“The development includes smart passive heating and cooling, electrical switches that indicate when off-peak power is available and a master switch that turns off all standby appliances when you leave the house.

”This development at Redbank Plains sets a new benchmark for the residential building industry in Queensland.

“Queensland’s extraordinary population growth needs to be properly planned for in terms of water and energy use and waste disposal and this development shows that it can be done.”

Ms Jones said the six star energy rating on the Amarco development meant more efficient use of resources and lower running costs for residents.

“The Bligh Government has set the ambitious target of cutting Queensland’s households carbon footprint by one-third by 2020 to tackle climate change head on.

“That’s why developments like this are particularly welcome as an example of how we can cut energy and water use, save carbon emissions and still preserve the great Queensland lifestyle we all love to enjoy.”

13 February, 2010

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