2025 Resource Library

Criteria Principles, Benefits, and Background of Passivhaus

Understanding Passivhaus principles and their proven benefits is essential for anyone looking to implement high-performance building standards. The foundational criteria that define Passivhaus, combined with compelling evidence for energy savings and occupant comfort, demonstrate how these international standards can be successfully applied to Australian conditions and building practices.

Message from the CEO

The future of Australia's built environment depends on leaders like you who are committed to driving change. This resource bank contains evidence, tools, and case studies to support your understanding of the Passivhaus standard. Use these materials to strengthen your technical knowledge and help you navigate the opportunities ahead as we work to transform how Australia builds.

Alexia Lidas, Australian Passivhaus Association

Principles, Benefits & Background

  • Five Basic Principles for Passive House Construction

    Criteria Principles, Passive House Institute

  • Passivhaus Principles Guide

    UK Passivhaus Trust

  • Energy Savings Reliability Study (1990-2018)

    Comprehensive review of as-built thermal performance

  • Active for More Comfort: The Passive House

    International Passive House Association

  • Glenroy Community Hub

    Case Study, Background & Australian Context

Summary

Criteria Principles, Benefits, and Background of Passivhaus

Foundational Principles

Performance Evidence

Australian Case Study

Special Thanks

The content of this program was originally developed by Passivhaus enthusiast, and previous APA Chair, Kate Nason, Senior Sustainability Advisor Frasers Property. Kate donated the intellectual property of the 8-hour program to the Association to support the growth of Passivhaus in Australia. If it were not for thoughtful and caring volunteers, like Kate, APA would not have the resource pool it has to draw upon. It has since been adapted and updated.

Meet the 2024 Incubator Participants