Smart Mechanical, Electrical and Hydraulic Design Choices That Deliver Better Green Star Outcomes

In an increasingly competitive property market, delivering energy-efficient, sustainable buildings is no longer optional. Green Star certification has become a critical benchmark for developers and architects who want to stand out, lower operating costs and increase asset value. But earning high Green Star ratings is about more than compliance—it’s about making smart decisions from day one of your mechanical, electrical and hydraulic (MEH) design process.

Here’s how smart MEH choices can unlock better Green Star outcomes.

1. Optimise Mechanical Systems at Concept Stage

HVAC systems often account for up to 40 per cent of a building’s energy use, so the right choices here pay dividends in both points and performance:

• Select high-efficiency plant

  Choose chillers, heat pumps and fans with leading Coefficients of Performance (COPs) or Energy Efficiency Ratios (EERs). Modern variable-speed drives can cut energy use by 20–30 per cent.

• Design smart zoning and controls

  Divide floorplates into meaningful temperature zones, use demand-based control strategies and integrate sensors for heating, cooling and ventilation only when and where needed.

• Incorporate heat recovery and free cooling

  Recover waste heat from exhaust air or equipment and exploit cool night-time air for passive cooling, reducing reliance on compression-based systems.

These steps make a direct contribution to the Energy category under Green Star while also delivering real reductions in energy bills and carbon emissions.

2. Future-Proof Electrical Systems

Electrical design is not just about sockets and switchboards—it’s about enabling a low-carbon, connected building:

• LED lighting with daylight harvesting

  Replace traditional lamps with high-efficacy LEDs, add daylight sensors and programming that dims or switches off lights when spaces are vacant or naturally lit.

• Plan for on-site renewable generation

  Early provision for rooftop solar PV or embedded energy systems can earn points for both Energy and Innovation, and help your client hedge against rising grid electricity prices.

• Implement load monitoring and sub-metering

  Real-time tracking of major energy uses, like HVAC or lifts, meets Green Star’s commissioning and tuning criteria and empowers ongoing operational savings.

By designing electrical systems for adaptability and data-driven control, you set up your project for long-term sustainability gains.

3. Drive Water Efficiency Through Smart Hydraulic Design

Water is a precious resource. Thoughtful hydraulic engineering yields substantial Green Star points and lasting savings:

• Specify low-flow fixtures

  Toilets, taps and showerheads rated below 4.5 L/minute can reduce potable water use by up to 40 per cent without compromising user comfort.

• Integrate rainwater capture and reuse

  Rainwater tanks for irrigation or toilet flushing can contribute significant points under the Potable Water category and reduce mains water demand.

• Fit leak detection and smart metering

  Early warning systems protect building fabric and ensure you achieve projected savings long after handover.

These measures bolster your Water category score while promoting responsible water stewardship.

4. Embrace Early Collaboration

Too often, MEH services are squeezed in late. Involving engineers from concept stage ensures:

• Seamless integration with architecture and structure

• Alignment with Green Star documentation requirements

• Fewer design revisions, delays or cost overruns

Early engineering input creates services solutions that are more efficient, buildable and cost-effective, without compromising the sustainability vision.

Ready to Raise Your Green Star Rating?

Smart MEH design choices deliver more than certification points, they enhance liveability, reduce ongoing costs and future-proof assets.

For practical, coordinated services design that helps you achieve superior Green Star outcomes, get in touch today.