RFI answers

Whilst the annual ground temperature varies based on distance from the surface. At depths larger than 5m, the temperature tends to stabilise and can be assumed to be roughly the same as the average dry bulb temperature for the year.

Teams can use the provided weather file to calculate this. Should teams wish to consider depths of less than 5m, a finer temporal averaging period can be used, and the organisers encourage teams to research this based on the requirements of your design solution.

This is completely up to you – teams are not ristricted to any particular technology and we want to see a variety of ideas across the teams! We have provided assumptions for PV, however given the vast range of technologies available, teams will need to research and report on any assumptions made for their chosen technology.

Teams are allowed to use the LCA tool of their choice however to allow comparision between teams, the NABERS national emissions factors database must be used unless the emissions intensity for a product/material is not available within that database. In this case the team must provide a reference for the value they are using, and demonstrate how it is applicable to the Australian market including an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).

The required NABERS tools for use are those included within the challenge brief.

There is no need to include the surrounding topography of the site. We want all teams to start with the same baseline regarding this.

The challenge is primarily related to the external envelope, noting that internal partitions are typically between rooms so cannot have any transparent elements. However, teams are able to explore the thermal properties of the internal partitions should they wish to.

The HVAC system applies to any space that requires ventilation and/or air conditioning (both heating and/or cooling) to achieve the minimum outdoor air supply rates as well as the required space temperature and humidity setpoints. This applies in all highlighlighted/hatched spaces.

Acceptable documents include the following, provided that it clearly shows (for each team member) that they will be a full-time student in tertiary eduction on 1 January 2025 :

• Photograps of student ID
• Letter on University letterhead confirming current enrolment
• Official transcripts
• Any other document that proves you are a full-time student on the date specified

Drawings and required inputs have now been provided and can be accessed through the portal once a notification of intent has been submitted.

RFIs can be submitted up to 14 March, with final responses provided by 31 March. The next round of RFI responses will be published by 28 February.