Climate-Smart Homes Open Nationwide in May
Australian households are saving an estimated $3 billion annually on energy bills by adopting climate-smart home upgrades. On 17th May 2026, Sustainable House Day will open hundreds of homes nationwide to showcase these innovations, allowing communities to experience these advancements firsthand.
Households experience average savings of $1,500 per year by incorporating solar panels, batteries, and energy-efficient designs. The Clean Energy Council reports these upgrades not only cut costs but also prepare homes for extreme weather and potential power outages.
Adding electric vehicles to a home’s energy ecosystem can further reduce fuel costs, with potential savings of up to $1,500 annually depending on driving patterns. This integration demonstrates the practical benefits of climate-smart solutions in everyday life.
Helen Oakey, CEO of Renew, stated, “Australian households are leading one of the fastest clean energy transformations in the world. Families are installing rooftop solar, embracing home batteries, retrofitting insulation, and adopting passive design to save on bills and improve the safety of their homes in the face of extreme weather events.”
According to research, Australians spend nearly 90% of their time indoors, with residential buildings accounting for 24% of national electricity use and over 10% of total carbon emissions. This underscores the importance of sustainable home practices.
Tickets for Sustainable House Day are available for a flat fee of $15, granting access to multiple homes. Attendees can engage in workshops, panels, and tours to further their understanding of sustainable living, inspiring practical changes in their own homes.
Jane Kern, Head of Impact Management at Bank Australia, remarked, “We believe everyone deserves to live in a comfortable home that contributes to a safe climate future. We’re proud to support Sustainable House Day in showcasing practical solutions.”
In 2025, over 240 homes participated in the event, and 70% of attendees implemented changes to their homes within six months. This year’s event aims to build on that success, demonstrating practical ways to reduce energy costs and emissions while boosting climate resilience.
Sustainable House Day, hosted by the not-for-profit organisation Renew, has grown to become Australia’s largest community-driven celebration of climate-smart living. The event showcases Australians who have retrofitted, renovated, rebuilt or electrified their homes, inspiring others to take similar actions.
Last updated: 16 April 2026, 2:19 pm
