While the European Commission is finalizing its proposals on energy efficiency and performance of buildings raising hopes for an ambitious programme for buildings and therefore the construction sector, the Passive House project in Brussels, Belgium, celebrates its five-year anniversary. “What better way to celebrate this anniversary than with research demonstrating its unique added value for householders?” noted Jörg Palmersheim and Arnaud Duvielguerbigny, respectively ISOPA and PU Europe Secretary Generals.
Researchers from the University of Leuven have monitored since 2014 the Passive House’s energy efficiency and indoor environment quality and the expert assessment is very clear:
- The Passive House achieves quasi zero energy demand in real life conditions, even during winter months;
- Its occupiers enjoy comfortable living conditions thanks to low fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels all year long;
- The quality of indoor air remains stable thanks to high performing ventilation system.
The Brussels Passive House built in 2011 achieves 50 kWh/m², against the 120 kWh/m² of maximum total primary energy use which includes space heating, domestic hot water and domestic electricity as defined by the German Passive House [1] Institute. Furthermore, all findings indicate that the dwelling fulfills the maximum space heating net energy demand of 15 kWh/m² demanded by the Passive House requirements.
Optimized design, high performance materials and excellent workmanship have made the success of the 2011 Passive House. Polyurethanes with its light weight and long lasting properties, versatility and energy performance make it a material of choice in terms of sustainability and comfort.
To the press release here
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[1] http://www.passiv.de/en/index.html