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ING has announced its participation as the first bank in the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) trial for existing homes.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Australian government, aims to assist Australians in understanding their home’s energy use, identifying cost-effective upgrades and reducing energy bills.
From mid-February, select ING customers applying to refinance or top up their mortgage may be invited to take part in the trial.
ING is conducting the trial in collaboration with the Australian government, the CSIRO, and property valuers such as Herron Todd White and Opteon.
This trial will extend the scheme to existing homes, offering new opportunities for households to reduce their energy consumption, improve thermal performance, cut emissions, and support Australia’s goal of reaching net zero by 2050.
Josh Wilson, Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, said: “We want to empower Australians to take control of their home energy use and be able to make informed decisions about upgrades and appliances that will deliver lasting cost of living relief.
“With housing accounting for about 25 per cent of electricity use and more than 10 per cent of emissions, improving home energy efficiency is a key element of the Albanese Government’s comprehensive plan to reach net zero by 2050.
“Extending the long-standing and trusted NatHERS to existing homes will give Australians who live in older residences the opportunity to improve the energy efficiency and climate resilience of their homes – to reduce energy costs, improve household health and comfort, while also helping to reduce emissions.”
Commenting on ING joining the trial, George Thompson, ING’s head of home loans, said: “Household emissions are a major contributor to Australia’s carbon footprint.
“At ING, we’re committed to reducing carbon emissions, and that’s why we’re thrilled to be the first bank in Australia to initiate the NatHERS trial for existing houses.
“We see this trial as a leap forward in helping to remove the complexities and confusion that can come with retrofitting your home.
"With the knowledge gained through this trial, customers will have a better indication of what home improvements to prioritise to deliver the best energy efficiency and cost outcomes.”
This trial will test the tools and processes used to rate the energy performance of existing homes before the program is formally launched in mid-2025.
Each trial assessment will be conducted alongside the property’s valuation, with the time taken for on-site data collection ranging from 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of the home.
Participants will receive a trial certificate indicating their home’s energy rating, along with guidance on steps they can take to improve their rating.
In May last year, ING announced a cashback offer of up to $2,500 for customers who are refinancing or purchasing a home that meets the minimum energy rating criteria under NatHERS.
[RELATED: ING offers cashback for energy-efficient homes]
