Energy Ratings

We need to get an "Energy Rating" for the fabric of the proposed residence. Currently, we need a 4-Star rating plus a solar-assisted hot water service, but in July 2005, this goes up to a 5-Star requirement. We have been using some sample software to get the energy design done. But to get the design officially rated, we need to get a certified Energy Rater to assess the design, and the stamp the plans with on official rating. The software we have used is called "FirstRate". Our design looks like it can get the 4-Star rating OK. A friend of mine in Melbourne is an assessor, so I have been working with him to finalise the rating. On Sunday we entered all the data in the software, and hopefully by later this week we will get the final energy rating.