A 102-unit apartment complex is proving that sustainability isn’t just for new developments. With the help of our Green Building Grants, Verve has transformed into a model for energy efficiency—slashing emissions, reducing power costs, and setting the standard for EV-friendly apartments.
“The City of Sydney team are great listeners, understanding our needs for each building we manage. They’re extremely helpful and knowledgeable, making the grant process so easy,” said building manager Mel.
Sustainability initiatives may not always seem exciting at first since they’re not immediately visible, but their impact becomes clear—and compelling—when you see real results. Verve’s efforts have led to:
- a 49% reduction in carbon emissions
- a 42% Renewable Energy Indicator
- $6,000+ in annually in energy costs saved
The building received two City of Sydney Green Building Grants to support its NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System) energy and water ratings and develop energy action plans.
Lighting the way to efficiency
Since first receiving a Green Building Grant in 2021, Verve has steadily implemented greater environmental upgrades.
The complex installed LED lighting with motion sensors in car parks and stairwells, and signed up to our food scraps recycling program. By dramatically cutting common area electricity use by 42%, they’ve been able to save the building around $6,000 a year in power bills.
The 5.5-star NABERS rating (out of a possible 6) places Verve among Sydney’s most energy-efficient apartment complexes.
Future-proofing for electric vehicles
As more residents switch to electric vehicles, apartment buildings face the challenge of providing safe and accessible charging.
After receiving its second Green Building Grant in 2023, Verve tackled this head-on by installing a dedicated mains distributor frame, ensuring the complex can handle the load of multiple EV charging stations in the car park.
Now, any resident can safely install an EV charging station in their private parking space.
Growing greener
Beyond its energy efficiency upgrades, Verve is also making the streetscape greener, creating 8 kerbside flower beds to enhance the local environment.
The complex is now considering installing an extra 30kW of rooftop solar and switching to a GreenPower electricity plan to further reduce emissions.
Advice for other buildings
For building managers and owners considering sustainability upgrades, Mel said the process is easier than they might think.
“We learnt so much from the City of Sydney team, including their goal of reducing local carbon emissions by 70% by 2030—which is just amazing. Their passion is infectious, and it pushes us even more to strive for this goal of hitting net zero emissions by 2035.”
Her tip? Just go for it.
“The City of Sydney team were always willing to meet or jump on Zoom to guide us through the grant process. If your strata committee is unsure, reach out and ask questions—the support is there.”
Want to make your apartment building greener?
Find out more about our Green Building Grants and how they can help improve resource efficiency in your building with environmental ratings, certifications, and assessments.
🔎 Applications for our biggest grants round of the year are now open and close on Tuesday 11 March.
Published 27 February 2025
