In 2010, energy efficiency regulations under Section J of the National Construction Code (NCC) were strengthened. As such, achieving compliance through traditional methods became more challenging for many projects.
Typically, a new development could achieve compliance through the Deemed to Satisfy (DTS) method. This requires a formal compliance assessment and report that building certifiers can rely on to demonstrate compliance. However, it requires strict adherence to specific criteria (for elements such as insulation, glazing, and lighting). In some cases, compliance is only achievable by specifying very expensive or difficult-to-achieve solutions. When this happens, an alternative solution approach may be the best way to go.
What is the Alternative Solutions Approach?
The alternative solution aims to demonstrate that the objectives of Section J are achieved in practise, rather than by prescriptive DTS regulations. The Code provides J1V3 (formerly JV3) as an accepted verification method, and practical, cost-effective alternative. It’s a feasible way to support compliance and achieve sustainable design goals, while meeting rigorous energy efficiency standards.
In meeting the objectives of Section J, the JV13 method involves creating a digital simulation of the building. First, a computer model of the building is constructed using the building geometry and all the DTS requirements. This results in an annual energy consumption value for the building. The second step is to create a proposed building model based on the actual design. (The proposed building should be modelled with the proposed services, as well as the DTS services).
The annual energy consumption value of the proposed building model—including both proposed and DTS services—must be less than the DTS reference building to achieve compliance.
The J1V3 pathway supports sustainable design by providing the flexibility to meet a building’s unique energy efficiency objectives.
When Can J1V3 Alternative Solutions Create Better Outcomes?
There are a few common scenarios where J1V3 Alternative Solutions may create better outcomes over the DTS method. These include the following list of scenarios, which is by no means exhaustive.
The alternative solutions approach may better suited for buildings with:
- Different Glazing Requirements – Buildings which have significantly different glazing requirements (in terms of the total U value and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient) across various facades or building levels.
- Insufficient Cavity Space – Buildings not having sufficient cavity space in a part of the envelope (e.g. external / internal walls or roof / ceiling systems) to accommodate the minimum insulation required by the DTS standards.
- Eliminating Floor Insulation Requirements – Buildings which have a need to eliminate the floor insulation requirements due to conflicts between underslab insulation and services installation. It is also worth mentioning here that eliminating the floor insulation may not always worsen the energy performance, as the floor insulation itself tends to reduce winter heating demand, but increase summer cooling demand. The relevant climate zone and the actual orientation and geometry of the building would determine whether floor insulation is an effective approach to reduce the total energy consumption or not.
- Complicated External Shading Devices – Buildings which have complicated external shading devices where benefits may not be fully captured by the ABCB glazing calculator.
- Roof and Wall Coatings – Buildings which have coatings on roofs or external walls providing significant lower solar absorptance value.
- Better Envelop vs. Building Services – Buildings which have a better envelop but slightly poorer building services, over those of the reference building.
- Mixed-Mode Ventilation – Buildings which have mixed-mode ventilation where the associated energy saving benefits may not be fully recognised by the DTS standards.
How Can Section J Alternative Solutions Advance Sustainable Design?
Alternative solutions like J1V3 can have an impact advancing sustainable building design. By focusing on overall energy performance, rather than prescriptive measures, this approach can enable architects and developers to incorporate innovative materials, technologies, and strategies that reduce environmental impact.
For example, a design might integrate passive solar principles, high-performance glazing, or renewable energy systems to meet compliance, while minimising operational energy use. This flexibility can both support Section J compliance and align with broader goals of energy-efficient, resilient, and environmentally-responsible buildings.
Advantages and Flexibility of Alternative Solutions
The alternative solution is not a panacea for a poorly-designed (from an energy efficiency perspective) building. However, used properly, it can result in a more rational design and as a consequence, may cost less to construct.
The advantages of using J1V3 alternative solutions are not just limited to cost savings, but other benefits, such as energy performance improvement, aesthetics, and reduced complexity of design. The J1V3 method is becoming more widely recognised in the building industry.
If you are concerned about some aspect of the DTS compliance strategy, discuss the pros and cons with Application Solutions. An alternative solution may be what is needed.
Start a conversation with our energy efficiency consultants today.
