New Research Highlights Passive House as up to 4.5 Times More Efficient than Standard Codes
Modeled scenarios show the Passive House standard to be a robust alternative compliance pathway.
New York, N.Y. – The Passive House Network (PHN) will release new research on September 8th showing how Passive House compares to standard energy codes in multifamily buildings across climate zones 1-7. The modeled scenarios show the Passive House standard to be up to 4.5 times more efficient, highlighting its use in achieving predictable, high-performance energy outcomes and supporting its recognition as an alternative compliance pathway for policies, incentive programs, and performance-based building requirements.
The study, the second in a series of energy standard comparisons across several typologies conducted by RDH Building Science Inc., evaluated the commonly used codes IECC 2021, ASHRAE 2016, and ASHRAE 2019 alongside the Passive House standards of PHI Classic, PHI Low Energy Building, and Phius 2024 Core. The Total Energy Use Intensity (TEUI) of the Passive House models consistently remained at or near 13 kBtu/ft2/yr. The standard energy codes ranged from 29-57 kBtu/ft2/yr, a significant jump that represents needless energy loss.
“In highlighting the superior performance of the Passive House standard, this study holds incredible promise for the future of our built environment,” said Bronwyn Barry, Policy Director of the Passive House Network. “Passive House produces incredibly efficient buildings in every climate in the continental U.S. At a time when much of our grid infrastructure is aging or in disrepair, policymakers need to take note.”
For an in-depth view of the report, including an overview of the study methodology, assumptions, software translation approach, and findings, attend the free online presentation PHN Presents: Multifamily Buildings Energy Standards Report on September 9th at 2PM ET. The presentation will be given by report author Marine Sanchez, Principal & Specialist at RDH Building Science Inc.
The first task of the Energy Standards Report refined the methodology, reviewed the standards being studied, and summarized model inputs to ensure alignment with PHN and project stakeholders prior to modeling. This step was necessary to develop the most applicable building archetype and design strategies for each climate and standard. Future studies will compare Passive House and other energy standards in single-family homes, commercial buildings, and multifamily buildings in California, focusing on specific components and guidance in Title 24, v2022.
