Passive House Rating System
Follow globally recognized standards for your project.
The Passive House Institute (PHI) is an independent research institute that has played an especially crucial role in the development of the Passive House concept – the only internationally recognised, performance-based energy standard in construction.
PASSIVE HOUSE FEATURES
What Is Passive House
Introduction to Passive House
Passive House Certification is a rigorous and esteemed standard for energy efficiency in buildings, ensuring exceptional levels of comfort, sustainability, and energy performance. Established by the Passive House Institute (PHI), this certification defines a set of stringent criteria that must be met to achieve high energy efficiency and indoor comfort while minimizing the building’s ecological footprint. The certification process involves comprehensive planning, meticulous design, and precise construction, all aimed at creating buildings that are both environmentally responsible and economically viable.
Objectives of Passive House Certification
1. Energy Efficiency: The primary goal of Certification is to dramatically reduce a building’s energy consumption for heating and cooling. The standard sets specific limits on space heating and cooling energy demand, ensuring that buildings consume minimal energy while maintaining a comfortable indoor climate.
2. Comfort and Quality: Certification aims to enhance the indoor living experience by ensuring consistent thermal comfort throughout the year. This includes maintaining optimal indoor temperatures and air quality, reducing drafts, and preventing overheating during warmer months.
3. Sustainability: By focusing on high-performance components and energy-efficient design, Certification promotes sustainable building practices. This includes reducing the carbon footprint of buildings, minimizing reliance on non-renewable energy sources, and supporting the use of renewable energy.
4. Airtightness and Thermal Insulation: The certification emphasizes the importance of airtight construction and high-quality thermal insulation. This reduces heat loss and gain, contributing to overall energy efficiency and lowering the building’s operational costs.
5. Ventilation with Heat Recovery: Efficient ventilation systems that recover heat from outgoing air are integral to Passive House design. This objective ensures high indoor air quality while minimizing energy losses.
6. Reduction of Thermal Bridges: The certification process includes the meticulous planning and execution of construction details to eliminate thermal bridges. This helps to maintain the building’s thermal envelope and improve overall energy performance.
7. Building Performance Verification: Certification involves rigorous testing and verification to confirm that the building meets all specified criteria. This includes checks for airtightness, thermal performance, and overall energy balance, ensuring that the building performs as designed.
By adhering to these objectives, Certification not only promotes energy-efficient and environmentally friendly building practices but also delivers superior living conditions and long-term cost savings for building owners and occupants.
Criteria for Passive House Certification
1. Space Heating Energy Demand: The building’s space heating energy demand must not exceed 15 kWh per square meter of net living space per year or 10 W per square meter peak demand. In climates requiring active cooling, the space cooling energy demand should be comparable, with allowances for dehumidification.
2. Renewable Primary Energy Demand (PER): For Passive House Classic, the total energy used for all domestic applications (heating, hot water, and electricity) must not exceed 60 kWh per square meter of treated floor area per year.
3. Airtightness: The building must achieve a maximum of 0.6 air changes per hour at 50 Pascals pressure (ACH50), verified through an on-site pressure test.
4. Thermal Comfort: The building must ensure thermal comfort in all living areas during winter and summer, with no more than 10% of the hours in a given year exceeding 25°C.
5. Thermal Insulation: Opaque building components must have a heat transfer coefficient (U-value) of 0.15 W/(m²K) or less, minimizing heat loss through walls, roofs, and floors.
6. Passive House Windows: Windows must have a U-value of 0.80 W/(m²K) or less, with g-values around 50%, ensuring good insulation and efficient solar gain.
7. Ventilation Heat Recovery: At least 75% of the heat from the exhaust air must be recovered and transferred to the incoming fresh air via a heat exchanger.
8. Absence of Thermal Bridges: All construction details should be planned and executed to avoid thermal bridges, or minimize their impact if unavoidable.
Certification Levels
1. Passive House Classic: The standard certification level, focusing on achieving the core energy performance criteria outlined above.
2. EnerPHit (for Retrofits): This certification is designed for retrofitting existing buildings to meet Passive House standards. It allows for phased improvements and focuses on achieving significant energy savings.
3. Passive House Plus: This level builds on the Passive House Classic by including a focus on renewable energy production. Buildings must not only meet the Passive House criteria but also produce more renewable energy on-site than they consume over the course of a year.
4. Passive House Premium: The highest certification level, which includes the Passive House Plus criteria and requires the building to produce a surplus of renewable energy. This level aims for exceptional energy performance and a highly sustainable energy balance.
Each certification level builds on the previous one, incorporating more stringent energy performance and renewable energy criteria to address various building needs and goals.
What is Green Buildings?
"Energy-efficient structures designed with sustainability in mind, creating a greener and healthier environment." "These eco-conscious buildings minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant comfort and well-being."
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Different Passive House Certified Certifications
The certification offers several categories to accommodate different types of buildings and retrofit projects. Here’s a breakdown of the different certifications:
1. Passive House Classic:
– Description: This is the standard certification for new buildings that meet the core criteria for energy efficiency, including heating and cooling demands, airtightness, and overall energy performance.
– Focus: Achieving high energy efficiency in building design and construction.
2. EnerPHit (for Retrofits):
– Description: Designed specifically for retrofitting existing buildings to meet standards. It allows for a step-by-step approach to improve energy performance.
– Focus: Significant energy savings in existing buildings, with a phased approach to renovation.
3. Passive House Plus:
– Description: Builds on the (PHC) requirements by incorporating renewable energy production. The building must generate more renewable energy on-site than it consumes over a year.
– Focus: Enhanced energy performance with on-site renewable energy production.
4. Passive House Premium:
– Description: The highest certification level, which includes all the requirements of the Passive House Plus but requires the building to produce a surplus of renewable energy.
– Focus: Exceptional energy performance and sustainability, with a focus on producing more energy than the building consumes.
5. Certified Passive House Component:
– Description: Certification for individual building components that meet Passive House criteria, such as windows, doors, and insulation. These components are tested and verified to ensure they contribute to achieving the standards.
– Focus: Ensuring that specific components used in Passive House buildings are efficient and meet high performance standards.
6. Passive House Building Certification:
– Description: Certification for the entire building, encompassing all aspects from design and construction to performance. This is the most comprehensive certification, ensuring that the building meets all Passive House criteria.
– Focus: Full assessment of the building’s energy performance and adherence to principles.
Each certification category is designed to address different building types and stages of development, ensuring that principles can be applied to both new constructions and existing structures undergoing renovation.
Passive House Registration and Rating Procedure
The registration and rating procedures for certification involve several key steps to ensure that a building meets the required energy efficiency and performance standards. Here’s an overview of the process:
Registration Procedure
1. Initial Contact:
– Recommendation: Contact a certifier or certification body early in the planning process. This helps in identifying any potential issues early on and ensures that the project aligns with Passive House standards from the beginning.
– If you need assistance with the registration process, please contact us.
2. Submission of Preliminary Documents:
– Initial Check: Submit initial project details, including preliminary design concepts, energy performance targets, and any special aspects of the project that need to be considered.
– Preliminary Review: The certifier reviews these documents to ensure that they align with Passive House requirements and provides feedback on necessary adjustments.
3. Design Stage Review:
– Detailed Submission: Submit all detailed planning documents, including the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) calculation, energy-relevant planning documents, and technical data of construction products.
– Review and Corrections: The certifier conducts a detailed review to ensure that the planning meets Passive House criteria. Corrections or adjustments may be suggested.
Rating Procedure
1. Construction Phase:
a) Ongoing Queries: During construction, maintain communication with the certifier for any queries or changes affecting the energy balance or certification criteria.
b) Documentation: Ensure that all documentation related to the construction process, such as airtightness tests and ventilation system adjustments, is collected and submitted as required.
2. Final Review:
a) Completion Check: After construction is completed, submit final documentation, including updated plans, evidence of construction quality (airtightness test, documentation of flow rates, etc.), and any changes made during construction.
b) Final Inspection: The certifier reviews the final construction work and verifies that all criteria have been met. This may include an optional on-site inspection for additional quality assurance.
3. Issuance of Certification:
a) Certificate and Supplementary Documentation: If all criteria are fulfilled, the building owner receives:
b) Certificate: Official certification of the building’s compliance with Passive House standards.
c) Supplementary Booklet: Detailed documentation of the energy balance calculation and all relevant characteristic values of the building.
d) Plaque (Optional): A physical plaque to display the certification.
4. Certification Number:
a) Identification: Each certificate has a unique identification number, issued by the PHI, to confirm its authenticity.
The World of Green Building Certifications:
Professional Credentials
Rating system acknowledges the expertise and knowledge of professionals who are trained in designing, constructing, and certifying buildings that meet the rigorous energy efficiency and performance standards of the Standard. These professional credentials demonstrate a deep understanding of sustainable building practices and the ability to deliver high-performance buildings. Let’s explore the professional credentials associated with the Passive House Certified rating system:
Certified Passive House Designer/Consultant (CPHD/CPHC):
The Certified Passive House Designer/Consultant credential is awarded to professionals who have completed comprehensive training and demonstrated proficiency in designing buildings that meet the Standard. CPHDs/CPHCs possess expertise in energy modeling, airtightness strategies, insulation techniques, and ventilation systems required for achieving exceptional energy efficiency and indoor comfort. They play a crucial role in guiding projects towards Passive House certification.
Certified Passive House Tradesperson:
The Certified Passive House Tradesperson credential is designed for professionals involved in the construction and implementation of projects. These individuals have completed specialized training that equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary for executing the building envelope, airtightness, insulation, and ventilation requirements of the Standard. Certified Passive House Tradespersons ensure the proper implementation of energy-efficient measures during the construction phase.
Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC):
The Certified Passive House Consultant credential is tailored for professionals who provide expert advice and guidance on Passive House projects. CPHCs offer consulting services related to energy modeling, cost optimization, building envelope design, and mechanical systems. They assist project teams in achieving Passive House certification by providing technical expertise and ensuring compliance with the Passive House Standard.
Certified Passive House Tradesperson (CPHT):
The Certified Passive House Tradesperson credential is specifically focused on tradespersons who specialize in the construction trades. CPHTs have received training in the specific techniques and requirements of Passive House construction, including airtightness, insulation, window installation, and ventilation systems. They play a critical role in implementing the energy-efficient measures necessary to meet the Passive House Standard.
These professional credentials provide assurance to clients, building owners, and project teams that the individuals involved have undergone rigorous training and possess the expertise required for successful Passive House projects. The credentials demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and delivering buildings that prioritize occupant comfort and environmental responsibility.
Passive House Key Features
The Passive House standard focuses on creating buildings that offer superior energy efficiency, comfort, and environmental performance. Here are the key features of a Passive House:
1. Thermal Insulation:
a) High Insulation Levels: Passive House buildings are heavily insulated to minimize heat loss and reduce the need for additional heating or cooling.
b) Continuous Insulation: Ensures no thermal bridging, which helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
2. Airtight Construction:
a) Airtight Envelope: The building envelope is sealed tightly to prevent uncontrolled air leaks, which helps in maintaining the desired indoor climate and improving energy efficiency.
b) Airtightness Testing: Conducted to ensure that the building meets the stringent air-tightness requirements.
3. High-Performance Windows and Doors:
a) Triple Glazing: Windows and doors feature high-performance triple glazing to enhance thermal insulation and reduce heat loss.
b) High-Quality Frames: Frames are designed to minimize heat transfer and ensure airtightness.
4. Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR):
a) Efficient Ventilation: A Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery system ensures a constant supply of fresh air while recovering heat from the outgoing air, thus improving energy efficiency.
b) Balanced Ventilation: Provides a controlled exchange of air, reducing the need for additional heating or cooling.
5. Thermal Bridge-Free Design:
a) Minimized Thermal Bridges: Design avoids or minimizes thermal bridges, which are areas where heat is conducted through the building envelope, leading to energy loss and potential moisture issues.
6. Solar Gains:
a) Passive Solar Heating: Buildings are designed to maximize passive solar gains through strategically placed windows and shading to reduce heating needs.
b) Orientation and Shading: Proper orientation and shading devices ensure optimal solar gain and minimize overheating.
7. High-Performance Building Components:
a) Quality Components: Use of high-quality components, such as super-insulating window frames and compact heat pump units, ensures overall energy efficiency and comfort.
8. Energy Efficiency:
a) Low Energy Demand: The Passive House standard focuses on achieving very low energy consumption for heating and cooling, often resulting in a building that requires minimal additional energy.
b) Energy Balance: Maintains a balanced energy budget, ensuring that the building’s energy performance is optimized.
9. Comfort and Indoor Air Quality:
a) Consistent Temperature: The design ensures a consistent indoor temperature, improving comfort.
b) High Indoor Air Quality: Continuous ventilation and heat recovery contribute to a high standard of indoor air quality, removing pollutants and providing fresh air.
10. Sustainability:
a) Reduced Environmental Impact: By minimizing energy consumption and enhancing building performance, Passive House buildings contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a lower environmental footprint.
These features work together to create a building that is energy-efficient, comfortable, and environmentally friendly, aligning with the Passive House standard’s goal of achieving optimal energy performance and indoor comfort.
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Pros and Cons of Implementation Passive House
The Rating system offers numerous benefits for sustainable building design and construction. However, like any approach, it also has its own set of advantages and limitations. Here are the pros and cons of implementing the rating system:
Pros:
Exceptional Energy Efficiency: Rating system ensures buildings achieve exceptional energy efficiency, resulting in significant energy savings and reduced carbon footprint. This helps combat climate change and contributes to a more sustainable future.
Superior Indoor Comfort: Certified buildings provide superior indoor comfort with stable temperatures, excellent indoor air quality, and reduced noise levels. Occupants enjoy comfortable living and working environments, leading to improved well-being and productivity.
Long-Term Cost Savings: Although the upfront costs of constructing a Certified building may be higher due to the specialized components and systems, the long-term cost savings are substantial. The significant reduction in energy consumption results in lower operational expenses, leading to financial benefits over the building’s lifespan.
Increased Property Value: Buildings are highly sought after due to their energy-efficient features and sustainable design. These buildings often command higher property values and can attract environmentally conscious buyers or tenants.
Health and Environmental Benefits: By prioritizing energy efficiency and indoor air quality, Certified buildings promote a healthier and more sustainable living environment. They reduce reliance on fossil fuels, minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to improved overall environmental quality.
Cons:
Higher Upfront Costs: Constructing a Certified building may involve higher upfront costs compared to conventional construction methods. The specialized materials, advanced building techniques, and energy-efficient systems can increase initial expenses.
Design and Construction Complexity: Achieving the stringent energy efficiency requirements of the rating system requires careful design and construction planning. It may involve additional coordination among architects, engineers, and builders to ensure proper implementation of the Passive House principles.
Limited Design Flexibility: The rating system has specific design requirements, particularly concerning the building envelope, insulation, and window specifications. These requirements may limit design flexibility and architectural freedom, making it necessary to find a balance between aesthetics and energy efficiency.
Climate Considerations: While the Passive House Certified rating system is adaptable to various climates, specific design considerations are necessary for extreme climates. Additional measures, such as increased insulation or specialized heating and cooling systems, may be required in regions with very cold or hot climates.
Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring: Passive House Certified buildings require regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure they continue to perform optimally. Regular inspections, airtightness testing, and system maintenance are necessary to uphold the energy efficiency and performance standards.
It is important to weigh these pros and cons when considering the implementation of the rating system. While it offers significant energy savings, improved indoor comfort, and environmental benefits, careful planning, design considerations, and ongoing maintenance are essential for successful implementation. Ultimately, the decision to adopt the Passive House approach should align with the project’s goals, budget, and long-term sustainability objectives.