Thinking Like a Thermos: Achieving Zero-Net Energy Using the Passive House

Mar 12, 2010 at 1:30 pm
Room # 409

Presented by: James Jenkins, Passive House Northwest

Session Description:

Efficient equipment is heralded our savior, when we all know that the size (and eventual energy consumption) of this equipment is directly related to the building enclosure. The Passive House standard addresses the enclosure as the primary conservation measure, addressing super insulation, windows and air tight enclosures as an integrated player in providing comfort while minimizing or eliminating conventional mechanical systems. This session will address how the Passive House standard plays a key role in achieving Net-Zero Energy with less cost and overall carbon footprint by reducing the demand for expensive renewable energy technologies. This session will review the Passive House Certification requirements and critical issues to address when planning a Passive House. Two case studies will be used to evaluate cost and carbon footprint of the house as a system. The first case study will be an existing net-zero energy home that will be redesigned to Passive House standards. The second case study will be a home currently in design pursuing Passive House that will be evaluated to achieve net-zero energy based on the Passive House energy model results.

Speaker Bio:

James Jenkins, Passive House Northwest

James provides technical leadership to a large portfolio of commercial and residential green building projects at O’Brien & Company. He is well versed in green building certification programs such as LEED, Built Green, and Living Building Challenge and sustainable design. He facilitates project design and construction teams while guiding clients to make the best choice for sustainability. James recently completed the Passive House Consultant Training Series and is now a Certified Passive House Consultant. This credential enhances James’ expertise and philosophy of energy conservation; load minimization, conservation then generation.