Investing in a Passive House
Passive House buildings represent a long lasting, valuable investment for owners, occupiers and developers.
Does Passive House cost more?
Yes, Passive House does have a cost premium compared to a conventional building that meets the minimum standards of building regulations. However, this reflects the higher level of planning and superior quality of the components required.
Provided that the entire team, from design to construction, can work effectively together, the additional costs of Passive House can be minimised. For example, thicker insulation may cost more from a materials perspective, but the labour charges will not vary significantly. In addition the Passive House standard can deliver significant savings due to the reduced requirement for heating and cooling systems e.g. radiators and their associated pipe runs are not required.
Cost over time
Due to the reduced energy demands of a Passive House building, a building will usually cost less than its conventional counterparts over its lifecycle. The initial investment may be higher, but that is money that will be recovered through energy savings and has been invested in high quality materials. In short, Passive House demonstrably makes clear economic sense.
This is even more evident where subsidies for energy efficient building are available.
Cost effective retrofits
The better quality and more efficient a building can be made, the more dramatic the difference in performance. In the majority of situations, the additional investment required for high level energy savings measures vastly outweighs the ongoing costs of ‘business as normal’, even when factoring in the interest repayment of loans to do the work.
Reducing risk
One of the benefits of Passive House is that it is a sure way to avoid structural damage from moisture and mould. The buildings longevity is significantly better than its conventional counterparts, ensuring that your investment will go the distance.
Passive House buildings also command a higher market value, both for rental and sale. Occupiers are less likely to have to worry about monthly fuel payments and energy resiliency is becoming more and more important to property buyers. Many banks around the World have recognised the additional investment security offered by Passive House buildings, with low loan and mortgage rates offered exclusively to Passive House buildings.
The complete package
Passive House buildings offer it all. High quality, comfortable buildings with reduced risks of structural damage and incredibly low energy costs. Resiliency to energy prices ensure a secure future and that the building will maintain its value.