Quality implementation: How to translate great policy into effective administration, Victoria’s Residential Efficiency Scorecard

Quality implementation: How to translate great policy into effective administration, Victoria’s Residential Efficiency Scorecard

Authors:

Samantha Mikus

Presenter

Hugh Bartram

Organisation of Presenter:

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Australia

Abstract:

Establishing strong administration, governance and quality control for great policy ideas to become great programs is fundamental for success. The Residential Efficiency Scorecard considers learnings from similar tools and programs in Australia and overseas to provide a ‘first of its kind’ comparable assessment for existing homes. The assessment produces a certificate with a benchmarked rating and tailored advice on lowering energy costs and improving comfort.

The aim of the Scorecard is to provide consistency in results as well as providing trust in the rating system and information. Establishing and maintaining an administration, training and quality assurance system that delivers an output whereby there is no variation in the assessment of the same house by differing providers is our goal.

The input to the Scorecard tool considers the construction and design of the house and its fixed appliances. Since the assessment does not consider occupant behaviour it can be used to objectively assess and compare houses. In addition, administrative quality assurance measures must be in place to ensure the objectivity of assessments. Setting a high bar for training and accreditation of assessors is one such measure. Training ensures a trusted level of competency in Scorecard assessors technical and customer service skills.

Establishing compliance functions through an assessor agreement, as well as audit and penalty system are also fundamental. Strong quality assurance and compliance measures ensure reliability and uphold the reputation of the program.

This presentation will provide insight into the process of establishing an administration system for the Victorian Residential Efficiency Scorecard (the Scorecard).