PASSIVHAUS INSTITUTE
The Passivhaus Institute, also known as the Passive House Institute, is an independent research and certification organization based in Darmstadt, Germany. It was founded in 1996 by Dr. Wolfgang Feist and Dr. Bo Adamson with the aim of promoting and advancing the Passivhaus standard for energy-efficient building design.
The Passivhaus Institute is internationally recognized as a leading authority on energy-efficient construction. Its primary objective is to develop and disseminate the Passivhaus standard, which focuses on achieving high levels of energy efficiency and comfort in buildings through meticulous design and construction techniques. The Passivhaus standard is based on five key principles: excellent insulation, airtight building envelope, high-performance windows, ventilation with heat recovery, and efficient building services.
In addition to developing the standard, the Passivhaus Institute provides certification for buildings that meet the Passivhaus criteria. This certification serves as a quality assurance for architects, designers, and builders, and demonstrates that a building has been successfully designed and constructed to achieve the high energy performance levels required by the Passivhaus standard.
The Passivhaus Institute also conducts research and offers training and education programs to professionals in the building industry. It collaborates with universities, research institutions, and industry partners to continuously improve and develop energy-efficient building practices.
Furthermore, the Passivhaus Institute actively promotes the Passivhaus concept globally by organizing conferences, workshops, and seminars, and by providing information and resources to professionals and the general public. It has played a significant role in increasing awareness and adoption of energy-efficient building design and has contributed to the growth of the Passivhaus movement worldwide.
As a non-profit organization, the Passivhaus Institute operates independently and is primarily funded through its certification services, research projects, and donations. Its work has had a substantial impact on the construction industry, influencing building codes and regulations, and promoting sustainable and energy-efficient building practices on a global scale.