Renovation projects are often motivated by a desire for change or a need to improve functionality.

Energy saving modifications can accomplish both of these goals at once.

For bathroom renovations, you may wish to install water-saving measures - such as low-flow taps in your vanity and shower.

Replacing a showerhead can have a two-fold benefit of saving you money on your water usage, as well as providing a more satisfying shower experience.

You may also want to investigate installing a solar hot water system in your new bathroom - saving you money over its lifespan.

Garden landscaping projects can have an added cost-saving measure through the introduction of hoses with triggers, or timed sprinkler systems that reduce water levels.

A recent study by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI) found that households are increasingly installing such measures.

A total of 1,194 households cited such motivating factors as environmental awareness and the impact of drought as the reasons behind the switch.

AHURI researcher Kelly Fielding says: "Survey respondents reported that a range of water and energy conservation practices had become a habit and reported a high level of commitment to engaging in these practices in the future."