Adaptation of Australian houses and households to future heat waves

Climate change predictions indicate more extremes in weather conditions in the coming decades with more frequent and severe heat waves in certain locations including Australia. It is likely that the more vulnerable members of the community will be at risk during heat waves in the future from both health and financial perspectives. The trend towards fully air conditioned larger homes has already seen very large peaks in electricity demand during past heat waves with associated system failures. The impact of increased periods of hot weather, electricity price rises and system failure can be addressed in part through household behaviour; however it is concurrently exacerbated by housing designs which limit occupant choice. This paper employs outputs from the thermal analysis of typical Australian housing types to discuss this relationship between behaviour and design in future heat wave scenarios. Particular attention is given to populated regions forecast to experience a significant increase in heat waves in the future. Alterations to existing buildings and modifications of typical new house designs are utilised to demonstrate methods of reducing risks associated with extended periods of hot weather. In conclusion, a summary of the positive environmental and comfort implications of the modified designs is presented.