The Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC) designation is more than just a title, it’s a globally recognized credential that demonstrates our expertise in designing and delivering buildings to the Passive House standard, one of the most rigorous energy efficiency benchmarks in the world. Administered by the Passive House Institute, this certification equips us with the technical know-how to optimize building designs for minimal energy use, superior indoor comfort, and reduced carbon footprints.
As outlined in Vancouver’s Zero Emission Buildings in R1, RT, and RA Districts Bulletin (effective April 9, 2024), a CPHC plays a pivotal role in the Passive House process. We’re qualified to:
- Design to Passive House Standards: Whether it’s Passive House Classic, Plus, Premium, or EnerPHit (for retrofits), we craft building plans that meet PHI’s exacting criteria for energy efficiency, airtightness, and thermal performance.
- Conduct Energy Modeling with PHPP: Using the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP), a sophisticated energy modeling tool, we simulate and refine your project’s performance before construction begins, ensuring it hits certification targets like a maximum air leakage of 0.6 ACH (air changes per hour) and ultra-low heating demands.
- Verify Compliance: From pre-construction PHPP models to mid-construction inspections we provide signed documentation and collaborate with Passive House Building Certifiers to secure your project’s PHI approval.
Our CPHC accreditation builds on our energy advising experience, adding a layer of precision to our work. It’s a testament to our commitment to sustainable building practices and our ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes, like Vancouver’s zero-emission mandates, with expertise.
Unlocking Extra FSR in Vancouver with Passive House
For clients in Vancouver’s Lower Mainland, our new capabilities come with a tangible bonus. The Zero Emission Buildings Bulletin highlights zoning variances available to projects meeting Passive House or other zero-emission standards. One standout perk? An automatic 19% floor space ratio (FSR) exclusion under Section 10.33.1 of the Zoning and Development By-law. For example, a home with a permitted 3,960 sq. ft. could expand to 4,712 sq. ft. without increasing the lot’s overall footprint. This is ideal for adding living space or accommodating Passive House features like thicker insulation or mechanical rooms.
Beyond the fixed-rate exclusion, we can also assist with calculated exclusions (Section 10.15 and 10.33.3), tailoring your project to optimize space for heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and enhanced insulation. These variances don’t just boost your square footage, they make high-performance design more feasible and cost-effective, all while aligning with the City’s Climate Emergency Action Plan.
Thinking about a Passive House project in R1, RT, or RA? Reach out and we’ll assess your site, model your design in PHPP, and ensure you capitalize on available zoning incentives.
Why Choose Allester for Your Part 9 Projects?
Our focus on Part 9 projects, defined as smaller residential builds like single-family homes, duplexes, and laneway houses, means we’re uniquely positioned to serve homeowners and small-scale developers in the Lower Mainland. With PHPP modeling, we bring precision to these projects, ensuring they meet Passive House standards or other zero-emission goals like CHBA Net Zero (we’ll be CHBA Net Zero certified soon!). Our services include:
- Pre-Application Support: Conceptual drawings, design strategies, and variance planning.
- Permit Applications: Full PHPP models, signed CPHC letters, and compliance documentation.
- Construction Oversight: Mid-construction blower door test coordination and final certification prep.
Whether you’re aiming for a Passive House certification, or simply a greener footprint, Allester Energy Advising has the tools and expertise to make it happen.
By Allen Rabi, Energy Consultant