Passive House Feasibility Studies

Discover the Essential First Step: Optimize your projects viability while aligning the design and budget with high-performance energy standards for sustainable development.

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Jan 16
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Understanding Passive House Feasibility Studies

A Passive House feasibility study is a specialized investigation designed to assess whether a construction or renovation project can meet the stringent requirements necessary for Passive House certification. It's the essential first step in determining project viability, ensuring that the design and budget align with the high demands of energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Why Conduct a Feasibility Study?

Feasibility studies identify sustainable and cost-effective strategies tailored to your project. They provide a clear roadmap for achieving Passive House standards, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently.

The Process Breakdown

Initial Modeling in DesignPH Our feasibility studies begin with SketchUp using the DesignPH plugin to create precise project massing. This foundational layout undergoes further detailed analysis.

From DesignPH to PHPP Analysis The DesignPH model is used for an initial energy model assessment. Once the model is complete, the data is then exported to the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) where a more detailed analysis is then conducted. The PHPP model provides insights into insulation needs, window specs, and overall energy performance.

Choosing Certification Pathways For retrofit projects We explore EnerPHit certification options—component vs. energy method—and determine how each impacts your retrofit strategy.

Benefits of Feasibility Studies

Feasibility studies maximize building performance, simplify construction, and ensure cost-effectiveness. By considering all aspects of your project early on, they provide a holistic understanding of what it takes to achieve Passive House standards.

Cost-Effectiveness & Lifecycle Analysis These studies offer lifecycle cost estimates, illustrating long-term savings against initial investments and aiding informed economic decisions.

Not all Feasibility Studies are the same

Standard Feasibility Approach

  • Specifications aren’t developed sufficiently to establish cost optimal solutions
  • Cost reduction opportunities through PH performance and design simplifications are not identified
    • E.g. building shape, glazing design, right sized mechanical equipment

Outcome: Higher perceived capital cost to build to Passive House

                                             

PeelPHC Feasibility Approach

  • Undertake initial investigation pre-proposal to ensure fit for purpose proposal that creates real value
  • Undertake more detailed analysis to establish cost optimal solutions and shape fundamental design towards lower cost of construction
  • Support from Passive House-experience mechanical engineer to advise on simplified HVAC system
  • Collaboration with project cost consultant and Passive House-experienced construction manager for cost estimation

Outcome:

  • Stronger financial case to build to Passive House
  • Useable solutions even if Passive House isn’t pursued

The Role of Feasibility Studies

Deliver Your First
Passive House

Train the project team so you can deliver on your first Passive House project

Qualify for RFPs

Qualify for RFPs that require Passive House

Tailor-Made

Receive tailor-made content to meet your company’s unique needs

Vision Alignment Creates Synergy

Seeing the vision and understanding the common goals will create synergy and efficiencies to tackle a project together

Common Language

Develop a common language around the Passive House Building Standard and its requirements across teams with diverse backgrounds and disciplines

Avoid Pitfalls

Learn how to identify and navigate common pitfalls in delivering large Passive House
projects.

Who's it for?

Architecture Firms
Contractor
Building Inspector
Engineering Firms
Construction Management Firms
General Contractor
Design Build firms
Project Managers
Cost estimators
Building owners
Developers

Peter Wall

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Business Unit Leader for Sullivan & Son

“I recommend this course to anyone who is keen on learning more about Passive House design and the recommendations brought forward to assist in the design, procurement and eventually the construction.

I’ve worked with architects, developers, general construction, structural consultants and mass timber designers who have all participated in this training already as well.

In the big picture, the time commitment and the minimal cost for these courses will be beneficial for the team if everyone understands what it is we are trying to achieve to be successful.

Passive House Champion Primer Download

Initiatives at the local, regional, provincial, and federal levels are driving big leaps in energy efficiency and carbon emissions reductions. Through progressive step codes.

Download guide

Learn the Fundamentals

The foundational skills you need to build as Passive House project are acquired through our rich curriculum. Feel confident about certification through our Exam Prep.

Passive House Design & Construction

Acquire the fundamental knowledge and skills that will become essential for future construction.

Cohort
1 month
$1600

CPHC Exam Prep

Fully prepare yourself to write and pass the Certified Passive House Consultant exam.

Self-paced
8 weeks
$500

Using PHPP in Passive House Design & Certification

Learn the key Passive House design and verification tool used by the industry from the experts.

Self-paced
approx. 30 hours
$900

Book Your Exam

We are the first online PH training platform in North America, and many of our courses offer self-paced portions to accommodate busy schedules and provide greater flexibility for our participants.

Book Exam

Ready to Start Your Passive House Journey?

Start with a feasibility study to ensure your project achieves high energy efficiency and sustainability. Contact us today to begin your Passive House journey.

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