Key features and functions

1. Accessibility for non-experts: one of the main goals of the PHPP has always been to make energy modelling accessible to construction professionals, particularly architects who may not have expertise in complex thermodynamic simulations. While tools such as DesignBuilder-EnergyPlus offer a vast array of high-resolution modelling capabilities, the abundance of input parameters can overwhelm inexperienced users and lead to significant inaccuracies. The PHPP counters this challenge by simplifying data entry, using reasonable default values that help ensure reliable outcomes.
2. Simplified data input: the PHPP provides a streamlined approach to entering project data, making it easier for professionals to model building energy performance without needing to manage hundreds of intricate variables. This simplicity contributes to more consistent and accurate results.
3. Reliable results & comprehensive analysis: the principle behind the PHPP is that “it’s better to be approximately right than precisely wrong.” By focusing on essential input parameters and calibrated default values, the tool minimizes the risk of errors that can occur in more complex simulation software. This reliability makes the PHPP an ideal choice for architects and builders tasked with delivering high-performance buildings that aiming for Passivhaus certification, based on a holistic approach that supports a thorough understanding of energy efficiency and helps guide design decisions.
4. Energy demand calculations: PHPP helps estimate heating and cooling energy demands and peak loads, ensuring the building meets the Passivhaus standard of less than 15 kWh/m²·a for heating / cooling (the cooling requirement includes a variable for dehumidification), and less than 60 kWh/m2·a PER (Primary Energy Renewable).
5. Airtightness assessment: the program incorporates calculations related to airtightness and allows the used to assess the impact of air permeability on the energy balance.
6. Overheating & indoor humidity analysis: the tool provides an overheating analysis capability, with an in-built stress-test to determine whether a building without active cooling may suffer from overheating issues. The program also features an analysis of the risk of excessive indoor humidity, which can be a problem for thermal comfort in the summer and shoulder months.
7. Climate data: while official PHI climate file should always be used in certification projects, users can input climate data specific to their project location, to compare results with the official climate files and ensure the energy modelling accurately reflects real-world conditions.
8. Global Application: While designed in Germany, PHPP is adaptable to various climates and building types, making it a global standard for energy-efficient design.
9. Verification for Certification: PHPP serves as the primary tool for Passivhaus building certification, verifying that the project complies with Passivhaus criteria.
10. Energy balance optimization: it allows users to adjust building components and systems to optimize the building’s energy balance, including as insulation, thermal bridges, window frames and glazing, shading devices, thermal inertia, exterior colours, and mechanical and natural ventilation. Additionally, the tool provides easy modelling capabilities for a wide range of active systems: air-source / ground source / water source heat pumps, district heating/cooling systems, stoves and boilers, compact heat pump units, solar thermal systems, and solar photovoltaic generators.
11. Comprehensive results: monthly and annual results are provided for useful energy demand, final energy demand, primary energy consumption and CO2 emissions, together with on-site renewable energy generation. Additionally, results are provided that indicate the % of hours (on a monthly basis) where overheating occurs and where there is excessive indoor humidity.
12. Supports sustainability goals: By facilitating low-energy building designs, PHPP contributes to reduced carbon emissions and sustainable construction practices.