In Australia, the National Construction Code (NCC) serves as a regulatory framework for the design and construction of commercial buildings.
The updated NCC Energy Efficiency legislation preview for Commercial buildings has been made available. While the modifications are relatively minor, they can potentially bring about significant implications for your project.
Here are four crucial details you should be familiar with when it comes to complying with NCC BCA Section J for Commercial buildings.
What new things should you expect from NCC 2023 for commercial buildings?
Removal of Slab-on-Ground Insulation Requirement
The previous requirement for insulation beneath ground slabs in the NCC 2016 has been eliminated for Deemed to Satisfy (DTS) Section J assessments in most cases.
This change will be welcomed by many developers and builders whose projects faced obstacles in achieving Section J compliance using the simpler, more cost-effective, and quicker DTS method, even for complex constructions.
However, it is important to note that insulation under a slab-on-ground will still be necessary for certain buildings in Climate Zone 7 and all buildings in Climate Zone 8, which pertain to cold climates.
You can also demonstrate the energy efficiency of your commercial project through NABERS rating.
Revamped Requirements for Class 2 Single-Occupancy Units (SOU) and Class 4 Buildings
Under the commercial legislation, Class 2 Single-Occupancy Units and Class 4 buildings fall under the "residential" building categories for assessment purposes.
In line with the significant revision of Residential Energy Efficiency requirements, there are numerous new and modified requirements specifically tailored to these two building classes within the Commercial legislation.
Notably, two new Performance Requirements (J1P2 and J1P3) have been introduced, addressing thermal performance and energy consumption for these buildings.
The most notable change for the Class 2 assessment is the introduction of a Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) pathway for energy efficiency compliance.
Previously, each unit necessitated its own NatHERS Assessment, with the overall building also required to achieve a minimum average rating across all units.
Depending on the project, utilising the DTS pathway may offer a more straightforward approach to achieving compliance with energy efficiency standards for Class 2 buildings.
Ensuring Building Resilience With Solar, Batteries, and Electric Vehicle Charging
One of the prominent additions to the commercial requirements in BCA Section J is the inclusion of provisions for solar panels, battery systems, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure within buildings (new Performance Requirement J1P4).
While this requirement is not mandatory for projects until October 1, 2023 (as outlined below), future building designs for most building classes must incorporate these features:
- Dedicated Electrical Distribution Boards for Car Charging: Car Parks with ten or more spaces per storey must be equipped with separate electrical distribution boards dedicated to facilitating car charging.
- Preparation for Solar Panel and Battery System Integration: The main electrical switchboard of the building must include circuit breakers/DINs (Device Identification Numbers) to accommodate the future installation of solar panel systems and battery systems.
- Clear Roof Area for Solar Panels: Buildings with a roof area exceeding 55 m² must reserve a minimum of 20% of the roof area as clear space for the optional installation of solar panels. Exceptions to this requirement may apply to roof terraces, carparks, and similar areas.
These measures aim to enhance building resilience by promoting the utilisation of renewable energy sources and facilitating the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure.
While the full implementation of these requirements is slated for October 1, 2023, it is crucial for building designs to incorporate these provisions to future-proof commercial buildings and contribute to sustainable energy practices.
These sustainable practices might also help to increase your NABERS rating.
NCC 2023 Implementation Schedule
- October 1, 2022 - NCC 2022 becomes available for utilisation.
- May 1, 2023 - Mandatory adoption of NCC 2022, excluding the updated energy efficiency requirements.
- October 1, 2023 - Compulsory adoption of the new energy efficiency requirements, including provisions for charging infrastructure, solar panels, and battery systems.
It is important to note that individual States and Territories may introduce their own transition provisions, which could potentially impact the aforementioned dates.
Wrapping Up
Understanding and adhering to the new NCC BCA Section J requirements for commercial buildings is crucial for promoting energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices.
By embracing the changes in insulation, building classes, and future-proofing measures, stakeholders can contribute to a greener future while ensuring compliance with the latest regulations.
