Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has loaned $80 million to lower energy bills in two new energy-efficient apartment towers in Sydney’s Hills Shire.

The dual apartment towers, part of Mulpha Australia’s $1 billion zero-carbon Norwest Quarter development, will deliver 196 net zero-ready apartments in stage one and will be fully powered by renewable energy and feature all-electric, high-performing appliances.

“The Government is working with the CEFC to improve residential energy performance. We want more Australians to have access to homes that are more comfortable and cheaper to run all while reducing emissions. This project will deliver 196 net zero-ready apartments in stage one,” Climate Change and Energy assistant minister Jenny McAllister says.

“Australia’s residential houses and apartments are responsible for around 23% of overall electricity use and 11% of total carbon emissions nationally. The Albanese Government wants to make homes more comfortable to live in and cheaper to run.

“The National Energy Performance Strategy will help households and businesses make every watt count, focusing on easing pressure on energy bills, improving energy reliability and reducing emissions.”

Other features of the apartments include waste management initiatives such as rainwater tanks and onsite organic waste treatment, adding to the building’s sustainability.

The apartment towers’ design means residents are expected to use half the electricity and a one third less water than those living in a comparable development.