How to Build a Passivhaus
How to Build a Passivhaus
How to Build a Passivhaus: Good Practice Guide covers the essential topics that are key to successfully delivering a Passivhaus project. It reflects the most recent evolution of best practice approaches to designing and building to the Passivhaus and EnerPHit standards.
2023
Passivhaus Benefits
Passivhaus Benefits
Often considered primarily as the exemplar standard for producing high-performance buildings, Passivhaus does indeed minimise energy demand, but it delivers much more. Passivhaus can slash building heating demand by 90% without compromising our health & wellbeing.
2023
An introduction to Passivhaus: online course
Capital Cost
Capital Cost
To obtain a clearer picture of Passivhaus costs in the UK, AECOM, in conjunction with the Passivhaus Trust, has undertaken a research study into the capital cost of building to certified Passivhaus standards across a number of affordable housing projects in the UK, using a standardised cost tool to compare projects on a like for like basis.
2015
Quality Assurance
Quality Assurance
The need for this Quality Assurance guide has arisen from the rapid growth of the Passivhaus Standard within the UK and the recognition that with the increased volume, scale and complexity of building projects, that it takes an increasingly well structured quality assurance system to maintain the required standards of design and construction.
2015
ATTMA Technical Standard L4 (TSL4)
ATTMA Technical Standard L4 (TSL4)
This document with ATTMA provides the technical standard to be followed for the air tightness testing of Passivhaus and other low energy buildings as required as part of a Passivhaus or low energy building design.
2023
MVHR for single dwellings
Passivhaus Social Housing
Passivhaus Social Housing
This guide highlights significant synergies between the priorities of social housing providers and the multi-faceted benefits of successfully building and delivering Passivhaus homes. The aim is to explain why social housing providers should be aiming for Passivhaus and how to successfully implement the Standard.
2019
Passivhaus Costs Summary
Passivhaus Costs Summary
PHT costs & benefits guidance shows that innovation costs associated with early Passivhaus projects are now reducing as the methodology has become more widely adopted. Costs are expected to fall further once the Standard is adopted at scale.
2023
Health, wellbeing & people performance
Health, wellbeing & people performance
Each of the key chapters in Passivhaus Benefits is underpinned by detailed supplementary research, to be published in three supporting papers. The first of these, Health, Wellbeing and People Performance, is available to download now.
2023
A route to Net Zero – Retrofit
The Case for MVHR
The Case for MVHR
A widely adopted rule-of-thumb suggests that MVHR systems are only effective in more airtight buildings. This paper seeks to challenge this convention and suggests that MVHR systems are, in fact, desirable in nearly all domestic situations, either new-build or retrofit.
2020
EPCs as efficiency targets
EPCs as efficiency targets
The Passivhaus community is increasingly acknowledging and focusing on the issue of material choices and resource efficiency, demonstrated by the development of several carbon counting tools, including the embodied carbon PHribbon plug-in for PHPP.
2020
Demystifying Airtightness
Demystifying Airtightness
We often take ventilation for granted; most buildings in the UK rely on draughts and leaks! Continuous fresh air & eliminating cold draughts is a key comfort factor for Passivhaus buildings. Often the steepest learning curve is reaching the airtightness target. Breathe easy with this new good practice guide.
2020
Keeping Cool: Avoiding overheating risks
Keeping Cool: Avoiding overheating risks
Recent summer heatwaves and a heating climate have made us more aware than ever that the risk of overheating in both new and existing buildings demands attention. The Passivhaus Trust has developed detailed guidance accompanied by a PHPP plugin to address this risk.
2021
PHI Building Criteria
PHI Building Criteria
For almost 20 years, Passive House criteria have constituted guidelines for an excellent level of energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness and comfortable living conditions. To date, more than 1 million square metres of Passive House floor area has been certified through the quality assurance system set up in parallel. Through the course of time, these criteria have been carefully adapted and augmented several times in line with the experiences gained, albeit without…
2022
Passivhaus Retrofit
Passivhaus and embodied carbon
Passivhaus and embodied carbon
The Passivhaus community is increasingly acknowledging and focusing on the issue of material choices and resource efficiency, demonstrated by the development of several carbon counting tools, including the embodied carbon PHribbon plug-in for PHPP.
2022
Passivhaus: the route to zero carbon?
Passivhaus: the route to zero carbon?
How do we ensure Zero Carbon targets result in zero emission buildings? Many cities and regions are moving towards a Zero Carbon goal for new housing to achieve genuine emissions reductions. This paper analyses the definition of a Zero carbon building, and compares a notional building regulations Zero Carbon building with a Passivhaus Classic and renewables .
2019
Operational Carbon Primer
PHPP Periodic Heating
PHPP Periodic Heating
The Passivhaus Trust has developed guidance accompanied by a PHPP plugin to calculate more representative monthly average internal temperatures for existing buildings and an overall average for the heating season. These temperatures can then be used in the PHPP heating demand calculation to achieve a more accurate indication of energy demand.
2021
EnerPHit and PAS 2035/2030
Passivhaus Costs
Future Home Hub contender specifications
Future Home Hub contender specifications
This position paper responds to the report ‘Ready for Zero: Evidence to inform the 2025 Future Homes Standard – Task Group Report’ by the Future Homes Hub. It addresses modelling inacurracies and puts forward four key recommendations for consideration.
2023
Dynamic Thermal Modelling
Dynamic Thermal Modelling
For multi-residential or non-residential buildings the Passivhaus Certifier may require dynamic thermal modelling to adequately evaluate summer comfort and overheating risk. This guidance from the UK Certifiers’ Circle aims to establish a common approach to modelling, reporting and user handover in these scenarios.
2023
Overheating, Part O, and PHPP
Overheating, Part O, and PHPP
PHPP is a proven tool for assessing overheating risk. It has already been deemed to satisfy Part O of the Building Regulations (England & Wales) by several Building Control services, and should be accepted as an alternative means of compliance in place of the ‘simplified method’ and the ‘dynamic method’ for single-family dwellings and simple building forms.
2023
Certifier Scope of Services
Certifier Scope of Services
This paper serves as a starting point for discussions and agreements between project teams and certification bodies regarding roles, responsibilities, and expectations for achieving Passivhaus certification. The scope of services it presents is designed to be adaptable and applicable to various project types and scales.
2023
Steel in Passivhaus Construction
Steel in Passivhaus Construction
The integration of a steel frame for Passivhaus brings unique challenges. This paper draws on knowledge gained from the first steel frame Passivhaus projects in the UK to offer applied guidance and a best practice approach to high performance and Passivhaus steel buildings.
2023
Moisture and EnerPHit
Moisture and EnerPHit
This paper introduces the challenges around moisture risk to borne in mind when tackling any retrofit project, and is essential reading for designers, as well as clients who are looking to inform themselves of the key issues and factors that will influence the project.
2023
Passivhaus: an alternative for the FHS
Passivhaus: an alternative for the FHS
Modelling undertaken by the Passivhaus Trust demonstrates that an all-electric certified Passivhaus Classic performs better than both options proposed for the Future Homes Standard (FHS) in the 2024 consultation, as well as providing many other benefits.
2024
Heat Pumps in Retrofit
Heat Pumps in Retrofit
There is an urgent imperative to decarbonise home heating, but we also need better housing that is more comfortable, healthier and cheaper to run. How do we enable heat pumps and fabric to work in synergy to maximum effect? This paper aims to answer the question by modelling heat pump installation at different levels of home retrofit.
2024
Bespoke PER
Bespoke PER
This guidance note from the UK Certifiers’ Circle provides answers to frequently asked questions about what PER is, how it relates to other metrics used in the UK, under what circumstances a bespoke PER criterion might apply, and how to check if it does.
2024
Thermal Bridging
Thermal Bridging
Thermal bridging contributes significant heat loss which results in uncertainty during the design development of concrete frame buildings. At the same time thermal bridge modelling can become a high cost design activity, with frequent update requirements. We will explore strategies for risk mitigation at early stage design, share λ- and ψ-values we have calculated for different situations and present some general observations from our 2D and 3D thermal bridge modelling….
Case study: Care homes
Case study: Care homes
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the UK’s first Passivhaus-certified Extra Care facility, with a deep dive into Edward’s Court. Benefit from real-life examples and expert guidance from PHT Patron Architype. Learn how to overcome technical challenges in large and complex care homes while ensuring safe, comfortable and healthy housing for residents.
Heat pumps
Heat pumps
Join Passivhaus consultants and MEP designers Alan Clarke and Gwilym Still, Max Fordham LLP for an insightful discussion on the pivotal role of heat pumps in large and complex Passivhaus projects. Dive deep into essential design considerations, drawing on real-world case studies and the lessons gleaned, so far, from practical experiences. Throughout this session, Alan and Gwilym will share their wealth of knowledge, offering design tips for effectively integrating heat…
Airtightness & testing for multi-residential blocks
Airtightness & testing for multi-residential blocks
Air tightness design and air testing of large multi-residential blocks presents a number of design and practical challenges, especially in locations where planning requirements require building emission rates to improve upon Part L, such as within the Greater London Authority region. Issues we will cover are: defining the thermal envelope, choosing compartments for pressure testing, co-pressurisation tests, air tightness requirements for individual dwellings, interim testing and final testing including tall…
Ventilation
Ventilation
Kick off the 2024 series with insights into design challenges for super-sized Passivhaus from PHT Patron and WARM experts. Learn essential dos and don’ts for large projects, including ventilating big buildings and incorporating strategies into the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP). Discover whether duct lengths matter and the pros and cons of centralised versus decentralised systems. Join a live session with Sally Godber and Liam McDonagh-Greaves of WARM for expert advice…
2024 Large and Complex Passivhaus Masterclass
2024 Large and Complex Passivhaus Masterclass
Larger UK Passivhaus projects are expanding, presenting new challenges. Our 2024 online Passivhaus Large & Complex Masterclass series continues, addressing high-demand topics. Learn about airtesting high-rise blocks, choosing MVHR systems for 100+ home developments, and bespoke non-domestic settings. We offer in-depth case studies and topic-focused sessions, led by expert practitioners. Enhance your practical and technical knowledge for large-scale Passivhaus projects.
2024
2022 Large and Complex Passivhaus Masterclass
2022 Large and Complex Passivhaus Masterclass
As the adoption of Passivhaus continues to grow in the UK, we are watching more sizeable projects emerge with increasing complexities that bring new challenges. This on-demand mini-series covers some exciting, detailed case studies & the latest research on large & complex Passivhaus.
2022
Passivhaus & Embodied Carbon
Passivhaus & Embodied Carbon
Explore the relationship between Passivhaus and embodied carbon. Get access to the on-demand recording of the popular webinar to learn more about the Trust’s Embodied Carbon paper, followed by engaging presentations from key experts. It is an excellent opportunity to learn first-hand from industry practitioners as they share real-life case studies and valuable lessons learnt.
2022
How to Build a Passivhaus Series
How to Build a Passivhaus Series
As the adoption of Passivhaus continues to grow in the UK, we are watching more sizeable projects emerge with increasing complexities that bring new challenges. This on-demand mini-series covers some exciting, detailed case studies & the latest research on large & complex Passivhaus.
2023
Passivhaus Retrofit lecture series
Passivhaus Retrofit lecture series
This series is for anyone interested in designing and delivering Passivhaus retrofit. Learn from expert practitioners to enrich your practical and technical knowledge about EnerPHit, the Passivhaus retrofit standard, and how to apply it to your projects.
2022
Managing Moisture
Managing Moisture
Learn about moisture-safe design in retrofitting with the 2023 Moisture and EnerPHit Guide. This on-demand course delves into the complexities of retrofitting for energy efficiency while addressing moisture concerns in the building fabric and structure. Understand how to prevent moisture issues when retrofitting. Don’t miss insights from expert authors and expand your knowledge of retrofit moisture management for safer, healthier buildings.
2023
Handover & Maintenance
Handover & Maintenance
This course covers MVHR installations, highlighting their benefits in controlling CO2, temperature, and humidity. It addresses common commissioning, maintenance, and handover issues, emphasizing the importance of proper setup and user training. Key concepts include soft landings and ongoing monitoring to ensure system performance, with a strong focus on engaging users to maintain the Passivhaus standard effectively.
Building Services & Quality Assurance
Building Services & Quality Assurance
In “How to Build a Passivhaus: Building Services & Quality Assurance,” participants delve into building services beyond heating, hot water, and renewables. Discover the significance of efficient construction management, thorough testing, and meticulous inspections. Gain insights into optimising building services for Passivhaus standards while ensuring quality assurance throughout the construction process. This session equips attendees with essential knowledge and strategies to effectively integrate building services into Passivhaus projects, ensuring energy…
2023
Building Fabric
Building Fabric
In this lesson, you will learn the options for constructing the building envelope and other factors affecting fabric heat loss. You will explore methods for constructing the building envelope to minimize fabric heat loss. Key topics include the selection and installation of windows and doors, addressing junctions and thermal bridging, and ensuring airtightness. The lesson also covers quality assurance practices to maintain high standards throughout the construction process, ensuring the…
Design & Coordination
Design & Coordination
Explore the advantages of Passivhaus for superior building performance and comfort in this on-demand course. Understand key principles and certification criteria, enabling effective project planning. Discover how redesigning the process can revolutionize design and delivery. Delve into the pivotal role of PHPP as a design and quality assurance tool throughout construction. Gain invaluable insights to elevate your Passivhaus projects from inception to completion.
Keeping Cool: avoiding overheating risks
Steel Frame
Steel Frame
Master steel construction strategies and tackle airtightness, thermal bridging, and moisture concerns effectively. Navigate the complexities of fire-related insurance requirements and subcontractor design elements with confidence. By the end of this module, you’ll grasp essential insights into optimising steel construction practices and addressing critical issues, ensuring efficient, safe, and durable building projects.
RIBA Plan of Work – Passivhaus overlay
RIBA Plan of Work – Passivhaus overlay
The Passivhaus standard has now been embraced across various scale and sectors, to widen the impact of energy efficient and sustainable building practices. Lessons learned from large and complex buildings highlight the impact of building size and complexity on the design and construction processes and how the Passivhaus Overlay for the RIBA Plan of Work can be used to facilitate the successful delivery.
Leisure Centres
Leisure Centres
Building leisure centres to the Passivhaus standard is estimated to save up to 70% of energy compared to a standard leisure centre. The Passive House Institute delivered a presentation on Passivhaus pool design at the 2022 UK Passivhaus Conference. Get into the details of St. Sidwell’s Point, the UK’s first Passivhaus leisure centre. Learn about exciting new UK leisure centres targeting Passivhaus and design tips for Passivhaus pools.
Case study: Agar Grove
Case study: Agar Grove
Camden Council’s Agar Grove is set to be the UK’s largest residential Passivhaus development when it’s completed. This detailed case study introduces some of the challenges and complexities faced with a larger Passivhaus project, and potential solutions.
Non-domestic Retrofit
Non-domestic Retrofit
In the non-domestic retrofit course, participants learn to apply Passivhaus to large multi-residential projects, including various typologies, and establish a fabric-first strategy to achieve net-zero operational carbon. The course covers defining the airtightness layer, extending the thermal envelope, and optimising service locations to enhance performance in non-domestic buildings.
Multi-residential Retrofit
Multi-residential Retrofit
This Passivhaus Retrofit course concentrates on applying Passivhaus principles to large multi-residential projects, stressing streamlining techniques, prefabrication, and EnerPHit certification to align with climate goals. Participants tackle barriers to deep retrofit, harness scale advantages, and manage challenges like diverse tenures and integrating mechanical ventilation heat recovery systems. They also consider the social impacts and future-proofing benefits of EnerPHit in reducing fuel poverty and achieving net-zero goals.
Step-by-step Retrofit
Step-by-step Retrofit
This Passivhaus Retrofit course provides a step-by-step approach to retrofitting, comparing EnerPHit with PAS 2035, offering practical insights from retrofitting a mid-terrace property. It also covers certification requirements for step-by-step EnerPHit, focusing on managing moisture, dust, and mess effectively throughout the retrofit process to improve heating demand and indoor air quality.
Cavity Wall
Cavity Wall
In this Passivhaus Retrofit course focused on cavity walls, participants learn about practical retrofit measures, successful retrofit ingredients like energy conservation, and the advantages of external wall insulation. The course also covers the importance of a robust ventilation strategy, addresses moisture sources and risks in cavity walls, and explores challenges and optimisation options for heating systems post-retrofit.
Solid Wall
Solid Wall
This Passivhaus Retrofit course covers the comparison between EnerPHit, AECB, and LETI standards, emphasizing design fundamentals like airtightness and ventilation strategies, as well as addressing moisture risks and insulation system choices. Participants also learn techniques for detailing junctions with internal wall insulation in heritage buildings to mitigate thermal bridging and manage moisture, along with the critical considerations for window apertures in relation to heritage preservation and energy efficiency.
Passivhaus Retrofit: Introduction
Passivhaus Retrofit: Introduction
Join Sarah Lewis from Passivhaus Trust for a free introductory session on Passivhaus Retrofit, contextualizing it within the UK’s net-zero goals. Explore EnerPHit options and tools for retrofitting, understanding the relationship between retrofit and renewable energy. Gain insight into the depth required for effective EnerPHit Retrofit and learn to utilise a comprehensive EnerPHit-informed Retrofit Plan (EiRP). Discover how the Periodic Heating Tool enhances internal temperature representation during the heating season….
