In an era where sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial, the housing sector is witnessing a pivotal shift towards energy efficiency. This transition is challenging, especially for first-time homeowners who often prioritise size and cost over sustainability.
The following article from the Fifth Estate talk to our very start when Adelaide's sustainability consultancy, SUHO, launched (as a digital spin-off startup) Hubble.sh.
Our initiative behind Hubble.sh is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of market needs and consumer behaviour. Energy efficiency often ranks low on the priority list for first-home buyers. These buyers, possibly overwhelmed by the plethora of decisions and constrained by budget, tend to maximise the size of their construction, sometimes at the expense of quality and sustainability.
However, the trend shifts with more seasoned homeowners. Those on their second or third home purchase show a greater openness to incorporating energy-efficient measures into their homes. This demographic recognises the long-term financial and environmental benefits of building homes that are not only larger but also smarter.
The challenge of integrating energy efficiency into home design is compounded by the current process. Typically, energy efficiency assessments occur at the tail end of the design process, often merely to comply with regulations. This approach misses the opportunity to incorporate sustainable practices from the ground up, potentially limiting the home's energy efficiency and sustainability profile.
Hubble aims to revolutionise this process. By providing homeowners, builders, and architects with an intuitive, easy-to-use platform, Hubble. sh enables the consideration of energy efficiency from the very beginning of the design process. This helps achieve compliance and exceed it, paving the way for homes that are comfortable, cost-efficient, and kind to the planet.
The platform's development is collaborative, drawing on SUHO's decade-long experience in energy performance services and the expertise of Adelaide’s Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (AiLab) and Carnegie Mellon University. As Hubble continues to evolve, with plans for external investment and targeting export markets; it promises to make sustainable living accessible to a broader audience.
As we look towards the future, Hubble represents a significant leap forward in making energy-efficient homes not just an aspiration but a reality for homeowners at all stages. By redefining the approach to home design and construction, SUHO and its partners are setting a new standard for sustainability in the housing sector that acknowledges energy efficiency's critical role in shaping our environmental legacy.
As Hubble continues to develop and refine its offerings, a unique opportunity arises for early adopters. If you're a renovator, architect, or anyone passionate about elevating your projects with cutting-edge energy efficiency tools, we grant free access for testing purposes. This is your chance to influence the future of sustainable building design and take your projects to the next level.
For more insights into Hubble and to delve deeper into this transformative platform, read the full article by Poppy Johnston, dated 2 July 2020, on The Fifth Estate. Discover how Hubble.sh is shaping the future of home building and renovation, making energy efficiency an accessible and integral part of the process.
Read the full article here: The Startup Putting Energy Efficiency in the Hands of First-Home Buyers and Renovators.