PH101: An Introduction to Passive Buildings

Join a community of AEC professionals for a free 2-hour introduction to passive building!

Passive House is more than just an energy efficiency certification; it is a rigorous building science framework that transforms how we design and build. This two-hour training introduces a performance-first design and construction model where buildings are optimized for durability, health, comfort, and low operational costs. By prioritizing a high-performance building envelope, passive buildings create indoor environments that remain exceptionally quiet and resilient against extreme weather while providing continuous, filtered fresh air. You will learn how the Passive House standard minimizes energy demand, resulting in durable, 100-year buildings that protect both the owner's investment and the occupant's well-being.

As the Northeast shifts toward more stringent energy standards and decarbonization goals, mastering these high-performance techniques has become essential for modern practice. We explore the core principles of Passive House delivery—from airtight construction and thermal bridge-free design to balanced ventilation—and demonstrate how an integrated process makes these goals both achievable and financially viable. This training demystifies the certification process and highlights the incentives available to support projects. Join us to gain the expertise needed to lead the transition toward a resilient, sustainable, and high-quality built environment.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify key benefits of passive building for occupants and owners, such as operational cost savings, superior air quality, thermal comfort, and durability.
2. Explain core building science principles like airtightness and continuous insulation that drive building performance.
3. Describe the integrated project delivery model and the critical team roles needed for successful certification.
4. Understand Passive House as a compliance pathway for state energy codes and the broader context of growing Passive House adoption especially in the multifamily and commercial market.

👉 Continuing Ed: 2 AIA HSW LU, 2 Phius CEU

Presenter:

• Beth Campbell, Education Program Director at Passive House Massachusetts
  • Phius Certified Builder (CPHB) Instructor
  • PHI Certified Tradesperson (CPHT)
  • Board Chair, Passive House RI
  • 23+ years construction experience