Due to be launched in September, the modular courses for AECB members are tailored specifically for the UK market and will include ‘Science of Passivhaus’, aimed at designers, ‘Construction of Passivhaus’, developed specifically for contractors, and ‘Building Services for Passivhaus’, which will target mechanical and electrical engineers.
‘Science of Passivhaus’ examines what makes the standard different and how it works, providing an insight into the physics of energy in Passivhaus buildings, ‘Construction of Passivhaus’ provides guidance on achieving the standard from a practical and contractual perspective, while ‘Building Services for Passivhaus’ covers all aspects of ventilation design, heating, hot water and primary energy, with reference to the inputs required in the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP)
The new modules are the latest in a suite of courses designed to offer training in the complete Certified Passivhaus Designer syllabus in preparation for the final exam,
which enables people to attain the globally recognised qualification of ‘Certified Passivhaus Designer’ (CEPH).
Training will initially be held at centres in London and Bristol or can also be run as in-house courses. Developed in conjunction with leading industry experts and hosted by WARM, an independent consultancy with the theoretical and practical knowledge to bring pioneering low energy buildings from design to reality, the modules are designed to equip delegates with the skills and expertise to benefit from opportunities in this expanding sector.
Peter Warm, one of WARM’s founders, comments: “Passivhaus is fast becoming the leading European standard for low energy building design and construction, offering a tried and tested approach capable of making a real impact when it comes to ensuring a more sustainable future. The support of Saint-Gobain Isover with their expertise in Multi-Comfort House in developing these courses will be instrumental in enabling us to bring Passivhaus techniques to a wider audience. We have already completed successful pilots of the modules, and look forward to launching them to the UK market.”
Saint-Gobain Isover is committed to working with the industry to promote sustainable construction methods and its Multi-Comfort House concept builds on the Passivhaus principles of delivering the highest thermal comfort while reducing energy use and CO,,emissions by considering occupants’ wellbeing, taking into account acoustic and safety features as well as energy saving measures.
Stacey Davis, marketing director for Saint-Gobain Isover, adds: “We are already working with upcoming architects to promote Passivhaus principles through our annual architectural Multi-Comfort House competition aimed at students of architecture. Our partnership with the AECB and WARM will enable us to promote the benefits of a Passivhaus and Multi-Comfort House approach to a wider audience, helping professionals in the industry meet the environmental challenge facing the construction industry.
“As part of Saint-Gobain, which is committed to developing sustainable solutions for the built environment, Isover is uniquely placed to deliver comprehensive solutions which help to meet Passivhaus standards, incorporating thermal and acoustic comfort, high indoor air quality, air tightness and exceptional energy efficiency.”
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