International Passive House Days from 13 to 15 November 2015
(Press Release, Passive House Institute, 10 November 2015)
Darmstadt, Germany. A Passive House building combines energy efficiency with high levels of comfort – those wishing to get their own impression will have the chance to do so from 13 to 15 November. During the International Passive House Days event, the doors of hundreds of buildings are open in many countries around the world. Experts will demonstrate how these buildings and houses work, while residents will share their experiences. An overview of buildings being opened to the general public in various cities and regions is provided online here for local NY-area projects, and here for international projects.
During a visit, it quickly becomes apparent what distinguishes a Passive House from regular buildings: the indoor air quality is demonstrably higher than in conventional buildings, the room temperatures remain pleasantly stable in a natural way – both in summer and in winter. “In personal talks with inhabitants of Passive Houses, some of whom have been living in these for many years, even detailed questions can be easily clarified in a straightforward way,” says Amina Lang from the International Passive House Association (iPHA).
Over a third of the total energy consumed in industrialized countries results from the operation of buildings – most of this goes towards heating and cooling. This consumption can be reduced by up to 90 percent using Passive House technology. Therefore, a broad implementation of this construction method is crucial for climate protection. At the same time, the Passive House Standard is also an especially attractive investment opportunity. “Any extra investment costs are usually recouped within a few years, due to the low energy consumption,” says Dr. Wolfgang Feist, Director of the international Passive House Institute (PHI). “And monthly heating bills will of course remain marginal after that as well”.
The internationally held Passive House Days have been taking place on a weekend in autumn each year since 2004. Tens of thousands of people in total have taken this opportunity to gain a first-hand experience of the benefits that a Passive House building has to offer. The event is an initiative of the International Passive House Association iPHA, in cooperation with its affiliates in their respective countries.
In the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut regions, there are 28 Open Houses planned for the weekend of Friday, November 13th through Sunday, November 15th, including a kickoff reception on the evening of Friday November 13th. Find out more and plan your weekend here.
