Aquarevo housing project in Melbourne aims to conserve water by 70 percent

A new housing community in Melbourne’s south-east suburb of Lyndhurst that reduces mains drinking water usage by about 70 percent is set for launch.

Aquarevo, a 460-home community, aims to maximise water efficiency through greater use of recycled and rainwater and the developers claim it will become Australia’s most water efficient large-scale housing development.

Aquarevo is a collaboration between South East Water and Villawood Properties.

The project will be developed on the site of a decommissioned South East Water purification plant. Rather than simply sell it off, the Victorian government utility saw an opportunity to develop and showcase water sustainability technologies within a residential setting. 

South East Water went to the market for a development partner to help achieve its vision, and agreed to join hands with Villawood Properties.

Key water innovations at Aquarevo include:

*  a rainwater tank in each home that directly supplies hot water service for all non-drinking household uses;

* Tank Talk, a rainwater management technology that uses weather forecast data to optimise water storage and reduce stormwater run-off;

* OneBox, a pressure sewerage network technology that transfers waste based on network volumes, requiring smaller pipes and less excavation; and

* an onsite treatment plant, which supplies the development with Class A recycled water, suitable for washing machines, toilets and outdoor use

Sustainability features extend to rooftop solar installations on each home, aiming for 100 per cent renewable energy.

Aquarevo is located in the City of Casey, and is close to schools, shopping centre, medical centre and railway station.

The first blocks of land in the Aquarevo community will be offered to the public in April 2016.

“South East Water is committed to providing innovative and sustainable water solutions to its customers,” said its managing director Kevin Hutchings. “This exciting new development sets a new standard in water sustainability for Australian communities, and will deliver significant sustainability benefits to Aquarevo residents.”

Aquarevo will be displayed at Melbourne’s Sustainable Living Festival at Federation Square from February 12-14.