A home is classed as 'passive' if it does not require a proper heating/air-conditioning system to maintain comfortable indoor conditions.
A passive home can maintain a comfortable temperature with minimal energy input and also keep indoor humidity under control, thanks to five basic features:
• Excellent thermal insulation
• High-performance windows that do not let out heat
• Excellent air tightness
• Elimination or minimisation of thermal bridges
• Ventilation system with heat recovery
• Generation of the energy required to operate any systems and appliances with the help of photovoltaic systems and/or solar panels.
More and more people are realizing the importance of energy efficiency, and builders are starting to adopt long-term strategies. As a result, the number of new passive houses is on the rise. This trend is also supported by the fact that essential materials for passive house construction, such as triple-glazed windows and expanded polystyrene panels with added graphite, have become widely available and mass-produced.
While challenges remain in implementation, the key to creating more efficient buildings lies in a holistic approach to design. Integrating traditional principles with modern technologies is crucial. Mapei solutions, such as the MAPETHERM SYSTEM, which allows for the installation of thin porcelain tiles over thermal insulation and the placement of interlocking stone floors for added insulation, help contractors achieve this goal. Mapei products not only meet the basic quality standards but also work in synergy, surpassing the minimum requirements to ensure successful project completion.
However, insulation alone does not guarantee a building’s energy efficiency. While essential, insulation must be part of a broader design strategy aimed at optimizing passive energy use. This requires a shift in thinking from traditional practices. Hundreds of years ago, for instance, farmhouses were designed with porches that blocked the summer sun from entering the windows, while allowing the winter sun to warm the building. The attic was used for crop storage in winter, creating a natural insulating barrier. In those homes, chimneys also provided essential ventilation. Today, by applying these age-old principles alongside modern technology, we can create buildings that are significantly more efficient. With the right orientation, sunlight can naturally heat interiors in winter, allowing us to enjoy the warmth and light without extra energy consumption. However, it’s important to approach these new technologies with care, as incorrect implementation can lead to costly mistakes.
Effective insulation is key to preventing thermal bridges and minimizing energy loss. But what truly makes a house energy-efficient? It's important to remember that insulation works best as part of a comprehensive system. Along with insulating the home, attention must be given to other factors such as proper ventilation, dust-free air, and thoughtful orientation or shading.
In Europe, the construction of energy-efficient homes has become the standard. The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) mandates that, starting December 31, 2020, all new buildings in EU countries must be nearly zero-energy buildings. By 2050, all existing buildings in Europe are expected to meet this standard.
In Ukraine, interest in energy-efficient construction emerged relatively recently, mainly because electricity, gas, and water were once very inexpensive. It wasn't until the 2014 crisis that the country began to move toward more energy-conscious construction practices. Around the same time, government programs supporting energy-efficient construction and renovation were introduced. In Europe, building a passive house typically costs 5-7% more than a conventional home, but the additional investment pays off within 7-10 years. In Ukraine, with a more rational approach, passive house construction can even be more affordable than in Europe. Considering current utility tariffs, the payback period for a passive house is less than 5 years, and any future increase in gas and electricity prices will only enhance its profitability.
