Passivhaus
Passivhaus is recognised globally as one of the most effective building performance standards for delivering ultra-low energy buildings that provide exceptional levels of comfort, health and energy efficiency.
The standard is increasingly being adopted as developers, local authorities and housebuilders look for proven ways to reduce operational energy demand and support the transition to net zero housing.
While Passivhaus has traditionally been associated with bespoke self-build homes and small-scale developments, it is now being embraced by leading national housebuilders and housing providers as a practical framework for delivering sustainable homes at both medium and large scales.
What is Passivhaus?
The Passivhaus standard uses a rigorous, fabric-first approach to building design that dramatically reduces heating and cooling demand while maintaining excellent indoor air quality and thermal comfort.
The standard is underpinned by the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP), a sophisticated energy modelling tool that provides a far more accurate prediction of real-world building performance than traditional compliance modelling methodologies.
To achieve certification, developments must meet stringent requirements relating to energy demand, airtightness, thermal bridging, ventilation performance and overall building efficiency. This holistic approach ensures buildings not only comply with performance targets on paper but also deliver tangible benefits once occupied.
What does Passivhaus deliver?
Passivhaus certified buildings provide a range of benefits for developers, occupants and asset owners, including:
Significantly reduced energy consumption and lower operational carbon emissions.
Enhanced thermal comfort through stable internal temperatures throughout the year.
Excellent indoor air quality through continuous mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR).
Reduced energy bills and increased resilience to future energy price fluctuations.
mproved building durability through careful detailing and the elimination of thermal bridges and condensation risks.
Greater certainty that the completed building will perform as intended in operation.
How AES Sustainability can help
Passivhaus Consultancy and PHPP Modelling
Passivhaus Design Support: We work alongside architects, developers and design teams from concept stage onwards, helping to integrate Passivhaus principles into the design from the outset.
PHPP Energy Modelling: Our consultants undertake detailed and iterative PHPP modelling, allowing design decisions to be assessed and refined throughout the project lifecycle.
Certification Guidance: We provide strategic advice to ensure projects remain on track to achieve Passivhaus certification while balancing programme, design and budget considerations.
Building Fabric and Performance Optimisation
Fabric First Assessment: We evaluate insulation specifications, glazing performance, thermal bridging and airtightness strategies to optimise building performance before considering mechanical systems.
Thermal Bridge Calculations: We identify and mitigate heat loss through junctions and construction details, supporting compliance with Passivhaus performance requirements.
Overheating Analysis: We assess solar gains, ventilation strategies and building form to help maintain comfortable internal temperatures throughout the year.
Construction and Delivery Support
Airtightness Strategy Development: We provide detailed guidance on achieving demanding airtightness targets through robust design and construction detailing.
On-Site Technical Support: Our team works closely with contractors during construction to ensure critical Passivhaus details are correctly implemented and performance targets are maintained.
Quality Assurance Reviews: We assist project teams in managing compliance evidence, construction records and performance testing requirements needed for certification.
Residential Sector Expertise
AES has extensive experience supporting residential developments ranging from individual dwellings through to large-scale apartment schemes and multi-unit housing developments. By combining technical expertise with practical construction knowledge, we help developers deliver homes that meet the highest standards of energy efficiency, occupant comfort and long-term sustainability.
Whether your objective is full Passivhaus certification, Passivhaus principles, or preparing for the future direction of UK housing standards, our team can provide the modelling, technical guidance and strategic support needed to achieve successful outcomes.
Knowledge Centre
We have collated a selection of articles from our experts, offering valuable insights and practical advice around Passivhaus. Browse through these resources to stay informed and understand how, together, we can deliver future proofed, net zero homes.
Projects
Perceval Grange - Bellway's First Passivhaus project
As the housebuilding sector continues to explore practical routes to lower-carbon construction, Bellway’s first Passivhaus project marks an important milestone.
Associated Services
London Plan
Ensure London Plan compliance with expert support.
Whole Life Carbon
Understand your development's whole life carbon impact.
BREEAM & Home Quality Mark
Achieve your sustainability targets with our specialist BREEAM services.
Decarbonisation
Ensure compliance and demonstrate effective decarbonisation through thoughtful and sustainable design.
Contact
Contact us today to discuss your project.
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Address
AES Sustainability Limited
4b Oaklands Court
Tiverton Way
Tiverton Business Park
Tiverton
Devon EX16 6TG
Contact
01884 242050
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