Passive House Savings Calculator

Passive houses need dramatically less energy for heating than standard buildings.

How the Math Works

The Passive House Savings Calculator uses the formula: savings = area × (standard - passive) × price. Here, 'area' represents the total heated floor space of the building (e.g., square meters or square feet). The 'standard' and 'passive' values denote the annual heating energy demand in kilowatt-hours (kWh) or similar units for a conventional versus a passive house design, respectively. The difference between these values (standard - passive) reflects the energy saved per square meter. Multiplying this by the energy price (price) converts the savings into monetary terms, accounting for local utility costs.

Practical Applications

To use this calculator, input the building's heated area, the estimated heating demand for a standard house (based on local climate and construction norms), and the corresponding demand for a passive house (typically 15 kWh/m²/year or less). Enter the current cost per kWh of heating energy (e.g., natural gas, electricity). The result shows the annual savings in currency units, enabling comparisons between renovation options or new construction projects to prioritize energy efficiency investments.

Day-to-Day Use

This calculation provides tangible insights into long-term financial and environmental benefits. Homeowners can estimate reduced heating bills and plan budgets for energy-efficient upgrades, such as insulation or triple-glazed windows. It also highlights sustainability gains by lowering carbon footprints, helping individuals align daily choices with eco-friendly goals. For policymakers and builders, the tool aids in promoting passive house standards as cost-effective solutions for reducing urban energy demands.

Worked example

A 120 m2 passive house at 15 kWh/m2 saves about $1890/year vs 120 kWh/m2 (87% reduction).

FAQ