Stiebel Eltron supplies Australia's first large scale passive house with sustainable hot water
The first large-scale building in the Southern Hemisphere to achieve Passive House certification was built this year at Monash University in the form of a new student residence. STIEBEL ELTRON — the future-oriented green energy company — made a significant contribution to this certification.
The main objectives of the construction project were comfort, health and extremely low energy consumption. To this end, the total area of 6,000 m² with 150 individual rooms was designed to be sustainable and environmentally friendly in various ways.
The cross-laminated timber construction by Multiplex reduces carbon emissions by half compared to conventional concrete builds. A dry creek bed connects the site with the campus’s natural river paths and manages stormwater flow. In addition, a harvesting tank allows for rainwater reuse.
An important aspect is that the entire building is powered by renewable energy. This is where STIEBEL ELTRON came into play. The complex is fully electric, supplied with wind energy from the Murra Warra wind farm and draws solar energy from 60 kWp rooftop solar panels. As part of the all-electric strategy, STIEBEL ELTRON supplied and commissioned three WPL 23E three-phase air-sourced hydronic heat pumps for hot water.
Heat pumps are a sustainable and cost-efficient solution for hot water, using energy extracted from the air. Their natural energy production is enhanced by vapour injection technology, which guarantees high efficiency. A key benefit is their ability to harness on-site solar PV, reducing reliance on grid energy. Taken together, STIEBEL ELTRON heat pumps help save money and, above all, protect the environment.
Australia’s largest Passive House is not only "green" — it is also three times more efficient than existing residential halls at Monash University. The progressive student accommodation has been certified by the Passive House Institute in Germany, meeting strict international standards.
Andrew Whitney, Managing Director of STIEBEL ELTRON (Aust) Pty Ltd, concluded: “STIEBEL ELTRON is extremely proud to have been involved in the design, planning and supply of our award-winning, highly efficient WPL heat pumps to the Monash University student accommodation project. The Passive House certification achieved is a testament to the forward-thinking, progressive minds of all involved. We commend Monash and Multiplex for their commitment to the environment and for creating a showpiece for present and future students to enjoy and learn from during their time at the university.”