Big changes to Section J in NCC 2025

What are the key changes to Section J in NCC 2025?

NCC 2025 marks a shift from allowing for future provision to actual provision of infrastructure (Solar PV, EV charging). In addition, building fabric (insulation/glazing) requirements have tightened, and with it stricter requirements on facade design, which will need early stage consulting to get right. Critically, solar PV will no longer be able to be used to offset deficiencies in building fabric performance.

• A shift toward near-zero emissions
• Increased requirements for Building Fabric
• Solar PV can no longer compensate for non-compliant fabric
• Mandatory on-site solar PV systems
• Battery readiness and electrification
• EV charging infrastructure requirements

What is the Big Shift in NCC 2025?

Whilst NCC 2025 brings minimal changes to energy efficiency for dwellings, Section J introduces some of the most significant changes to non-residential Energy Efficiency seen in recent years—particularly in relation to renewable energy integration and electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.

These updates reflect a broader shift toward near-zero operational emissions and more future-ready buildings. Below is a clear, practical summary of what’s changing and what it means for your projects.

A shift toward near-zero emissions

NCC 2025 strengthens the intent of Section J by introducing a stronger focus on operational greenhouse gas emissions, alongside energy consumption.

• New buildings must work toward near-zero operational emissions
• Energy caps for commercial buildings are significantly reduced
• A greenhouse gas emissions metric is introduced alongside energy use

What this means:

Energy efficiency alone is no longer enough — projects must also consider how energy is sourced and offset, bringing renewables into focus.

Increased requirements for Building Fabric

NCC 2025 introduces more stringent requirements for building fabric performance, recognising that the conditioned envelope plays a critical role in reducing energy demand before services are even considered.

Key updates include:

• Higher minimum performance standards across most climate zones
  
• Increased insulation requirements for walls, roofs and floors
• More stringent façade performance (U-values and SHGC of glazing)
• Greater emphasis on external shading to control solar heat gains
• Thermal performance is managed through façade design, not just glass selection
  
• Improved consideration of thermal bridging and junction detailing

Solar PV can no longer compensate for non-compliant fabric

Under NCC 2025 on-site solar PV can no longer be used to offset poor building fabric performance when using J1V3 modelling.

• The building envelope must meet performance targets independently
• Renewable energy systems are additional, not a substitute for façade performance

Design implications:

• Façade design becomes more critical early in the project
• Increased use of external shading devices (e.g. fins, overhangs) may be required
• Glazing ratios and specifications may need to be reduced or upgraded
• Better coordination between architect, façade consultant and ESD consultant is required
• Addressing fabric performance early can reduce the burden on mechanical systems

Mandatory on-site solar PV systems

One of the most impactful updates is the introduction of mandatory solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for many building types.

• Solar PV must be installed on new commercial buildings
• Systems must utilise available roof space or meet minimum output requirements
• PV systems are embedded in compliance pathways

Design implications:

• Roof space becomes a key constraint (PV vs plant)
• Early coordination is essential
• Gas systems may require additional PV to offset emissions

Battery readiness and electrification

NCC 2025 introduces provisions supporting future energy systems:

• Allowance for future battery storage
• Increased electrical infrastructure capacity

Buildings are being designed for:

• On-site generation
• Energy storage integration
• Reduced fossil fuel reliance

EV charging infrastructure requirements

Section J now includes clearer provisions for EV readiness.

• Infrastructure to support EV chargers
• Electrical capacity and distribution planning
• Load management systems
• Planning for future EV demand

What’s new:

• Shift from “allowance” to actual infrastructure provision
• Greater emphasis on electrical capacity and load management
• Clearer pathway for scaling EV infrastructure over time

What Do The NCC 2025 Energy Efficiency Changes This Mean for Your Projects?

• Early Integration is Key: Solar PV and EV charging requirements must be factored into design at the earliest stages to avoid costly redesigns.
• Compliance Pathways: More reliance on Performance Solutions and Verification Methods will be needed, as Deemed-to-Satisfy provisions are stricter.
• Cost vs. Benefit: While upfront construction costs may rise, long-term operational savings and improved sustainability ratings will offset these investments.
• Future-Proofing: Meeting these requirements positions developments ahead of regulatory trends and market expectations.

NCC 2022 vs NCC 2025

When are the NCC 2025 changes coming to my State or Territory?

Victoria has already adopted the changes with ACT, NSW and Queensland to follow over the next 6-12 months.

How can we can help you?

At EcoResults, we work with project teams to navigate NCC requirements and identify practical, cost-effective compliance pathways. Some of the changes are common sense. Others seem onerous and unviable. Regardless of what we personally think of the changes, early advice is key to avoiding redesign and managing costs. If you’d like to understand how these changes apply to your project, our team is here to assist. Nothing makes us happier than contributing to the success of our clients' projects. We exist to make your life easier.