Australia’s largest glass processor Viridian, in Woodville North, has begun the rollout of a $4.5 million expansion of its local operations.
The investment comes as demand for double-glazed windows is set to skyrocket, as both consumers and new national building standards require greener, more energy efficient homes – the changes coming into effect from 1 October 2024.
The company has recently invested $2.3 million to install a new manufacturing capability on site, allowing Viridian to produce double-glazed units in SA for the first time, with a further $2.2 million committed to provide even greater capacity for SA.
The investment will enable South Australia to meet the State’s own domestic demand while unlocking exports of double-glazed units interstate, including regional Victoria and the Northern Territory.
Viridian anticipates its Woodville North site will increase capacity five-fold and grow its local workforce to 65 positions (up 148 per cent) to meet growing consumer demand for higher quality, more energy efficient windows.
12 additional people have been hired in the past 12 months, with the company planning to more than double its current workforce as the site reaches full capacity.
Double glazing is one of the easiest ways to improve a household’s energy rating – required to meet the seven-star efficiency rating for all new builds from 1 October 2024 – and increase thermal performance while reducing power bills.
Based on the modelling, residents upgrading their windows in a typical two-storey, four-bedroom home will save an average $529 a year, or an average $310 a year in a one-storey, three-bedroom home.
glazing can also assist the Government in achieving its net zero emissions target by 2050, driven by the need for greener homes amid a changing climate.
Residential buildings are responsible for around 24 per cent of overall electricity and 12 per cent of total carbon emissions, highlighting the benefits of better insultation.
Viridian’s significant investment includes a new production line along with furnace, cutting table and delivery fleet upgrades, in a sign of industry confidence in the State to deliver future improved housing stock.
Ongoing consultation with the building and construction sector over the implementation of the National Construction Code continues, as a two-year transitional period accompanied by a range of South Australia specific exemptions are developed.
As put by Nick Champion
This is a major investment in the State’s capacity and will ensure we have the capability to build homes to standards required.
Viridian’s decision to significantly expand its SA operations is a testament to their confidence in the State and marks a turning point for our local manufacturing industry.
For too long South Australian builders were forced to look interstate for products, now we have a local product to choose and export to the rest of Australia – once again South Australia leads the transition to a greener, more energy efficient environment.
Double glazing already delivers lower electricity bills for residents, but by making the windows here we can boost supply and help bring upfront costs down resulting in a better standard of housing stock.
The South Australian expansion means more jobs and greater opportunities to meet growing industry demand across the country.
As put by Viridian CEO Dean Haritos
Viridian has a long and proud history in SA. The expansion of our facility in Woodville North provides more job opportunities for South Australians in addition to growing the skillset of our local workforce.
This would not be possible without the commitment of the South Australian Government to the new National Construction Code.
As put by Australia Glass and Window Association CEO Clinton Skeoch
With the commitment to adoption of the NCC 7-star energy requirements in South Australia, the Window and Glass industry has listened, invested and is ready to deliver.
The confidence shown by Viridian in making these investments in South Australia, has been mirrored across the whole of the window and glass industry, as companies big and small have made investments in new products, capital and people to ensure South Australians homeowners can benefit from the savings and comfort that come from living in 7-star homes with high performing windows.
As put by Property Council Executive Director – SA Division, Bruce Djite
The glass manufacturing industry plays a major role in realising the objectives of the NCC and will enable lower energy bills and emissions while creating more comfortable, healthier and resilient buildings.
It is encouraging to see investment in local production capabilities here in South Australia that supports the State’s transition to a net zero built-environment future.
