Gingerbread Passive House gives a taste of Passive House Conference

Darmstadt, 20 Dec 2012. On Wednesday, the programme for the 2013 International Passive House Conference was introduced with a gingerbread Passive House in a special event that had the Frankfurt Christmas Market as its backdrop. From 17 to 21 April, experts from around the world will convene in Frankfurt to discuss the latest trends in energy-efficient construction. Frankfurt's Environmental Officer Rosemarie Heilig and Passive House pioneer Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Feist provided a taste of this upcoming event with an edible Passive House, made especially for the event, which illustrated first-hand how simple the concept is.

The 2013 Conference, organised by the Passive House Institute, will focus partly on energy savings through retrofitting as well as and the additional use of renewables to provide buildings with electricity. "More than 100 speakers will report on their experience gained through exciting projects," explains Feist, who developed the Passive House concept and directs the Passive House Institute. In addition to the presentations, a framework programme will include a Passive House Basics course, workshops for manufacturers, and an impressive public exhibition area.

Frankfurt is hosting this annual event, which has become an international meeting place for sustainable building, for the second time – an indication of the city's pioneering role in the sector.

As Heilig points out, nearly 2,000 apartments have been built or are currently being planned in compliance with the Passive House Standard thanks to public policy support. "In Frankfurt, we know how it works – and that it works," she said, commenting that Passive House is the best starting point for Frankfurt to cover its energy needs purely with renewables by 2050.

Passive House buildings allow energy demand to be reduced by as much as 90 percent, which not only saves money but also protects the environment. The concept is flexible, and with a bit of precision, easily implemented. "The effect is what counts," Feist explains. Builders can choose the installation they want to use. "When we insulate, we are basically making use of 'trapped air,'" Feist explains, adding, "Theoretically, you could do it with gingerbread."

The English language Conference Programme will be available as of 15 January on www.passivehouseconference.org