The Parametric Study Method
After defining the goals for Passive Houses in various countries with different climates, the next step is to perform a computer based parametric study of the building design solutions and to check the results for energy demands, financial investment, and healthy indoor climate. A traditional building design can be used as a starting point, and then each element can be modified step-by-step: external walls, roofs, windows, floor slabs, ventilation, etc. It is recommended to consider parameters such as the exterior wall and roof colour (solar absorption coefficient), the longwave emissivity of external surfaces, the effect of varying internal mass and internal loads. The parametric study is performed using a computerised thermal building model.
Possibilities are,
--> A simulation first principle model using programs like “Derob”, “DYNBIL”, “Energy Ten”
--> A validated simplified model based on EN 832, e.g. PHPP.
The Scottish Passivhaus Centre has broad experience in performing parametric evaluations and successfully developing appropriate passive solutions for different
climates. Do not hesitate to contact the Institute when evolving a Passive House design for your region.
References:
[Feist/Adamson] Feist, Wolfgang; Adamson, Bo: Design of Low Energy Houses in the Federal Republic of Germany; Lund University, Report BKL 1989:3(E)
[PHPP 2004] Feist, Wolfgang et al.: Passive House Planning Package 2004,
Darmstadt, Passive House Institute, April 2004.
