ING the first bank to join new NatHERS trial for existing homes

The trial comes ahead of the Australian Government’s plan to expand NatHERS from mid 2025 

ING is proud to announce its participation as the first bank in the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) trial for existing homes.

This initiative, led by the Australian Government on behalf of all jurisdictions aims to help Australians better understand their home’s energy use, identify cost-effective upgrades and help reduce 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 commencing the trial in collaboration with the Australian Government, the CSIRO and property valuers including Herron Todd White and Opteon.  

For years, NatHERS has been a trusted source for home energy assessments and ratings for new homes and major renovations. Through the trial, NatHERS is set to extend to existing homes, creating a new opportunity to help households reduce their energy use and improve thermal performance while reducing emissions and supporting Australia’s plan of reaching net zero by 2050.  

Josh Wilson, Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy says:

“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.”

George Thompson, ING’s Head of Home Loans says:

“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 field test the tools and processes used to rate the energy performance of existing homes before the program is formally launched from mid-2025. 

Each trial assessment will be conducted at the same time as the valuation of the property. Time taken to complete the on-site data collection will be approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of the home. Participants will receive a trial certificate to give them an indication of their home’s energy rating. They will also receive guidance on the steps they could take to improve their rating.