Exciting news! AB 368, which directs the California Energy Commission to conduct a study on incorporating a Passive House pathway into the state’s Title 24 energy code, passed the Assembly unanimously with a 79–0 vote! Next stop: the Senate — and then on to the Governor’s desk.
AB368 (Passive House Bill) passed through the appropriations committee. The goal is to consider adopting the International Passive House Construction Standard standards, as an alternative compliance pathway within California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24). This initiative aims to promote the construction of high-performance, energy-efficient buildings that contribute to the state's climate goals. Passing the Appropriations Committee indicates that the bill has been reviewed for its fiscal impact and deemed viable…
Passive House California (PHCA) and the Passive House Network (PHN) shared a joint booth at the 2025 California Green Building Conference, hosted by the U.S. Green Building Council California (USGBC-CA) in San Francisco on May 22, 2025. Throughout the event, various PHCA members presented their Passive House projects, showcasing innovative designs and high-performance building strategies aligned with the Passive House standard. [caption id="attachment_6495" align="alignnone" width="259"] Brian Pearson and Susie Harris at the PHCA and PHN booth[/caption] [caption id="attachment_6494"…
The recent devastation of the Los Angeles wildfires challenges us, not just to rebuild, but also to innovate. Consequently, the Passive House Network with Passive House California is launching a design competition to develop a groundbreaking catalog of high-performance homes to inspire and inform the rebuilding efforts in the Altadena and Pacific Palisades communities. We invite architects and designers to showcase the power of Passive House in creating sustainable, healthy,…
Explore a small-scale urban infill single-family residence in West Los Angeles, designed under California’s SB9 regulation—a recent law aimed at increasing residential density to help address the housing shortage in Los Angeles. Designed by PARAVANT Architects, this home was recently certified as a Passive House Classic by the International Passive House Institute (PHI). You’ll also have the opportunity to observe the ongoing renovation of an existing home, which is being…
Intelligent Membranes joins us to provide an overview of the role of liquid-applied solutions in enhancing airtightness and sustainability in construction. This session will examine their product range, including the airtight membrane “Passive Purple,” the flexible waterproof membrane “THE GOAT,” and the A2-rated intumescent fire-retardant paint “FRED.” We’ll discuss how these materials support easier application, improve building performance, and meet the requirements of Passivhaus standards. Presenter: Adam White is the…
When it comes to wildfire events like the recent disasters in Los Angeles, Oklahoma, Texas, and the Carolinas, the danger doesn’t go away once the flames are put out. While the focus during these events is directed at the fires, the accompanying smoke produces long-lasting danger in the structures that were spared. A recent article from The Cool Down by Samantha Hindman explains why. READ ENTIRE ARTICLE
A groundbreaking bill, AB 368, has been introduced in the California State Legislature to establish Passive House certification as an alternative compliance pathway to Title 24. This marks a significant step toward advancing high-performance, energy-efficient buildings statewide. Climate Action California has been a huge support and we are here because of them! The bill may be heard in committee on April 2nd—here’s how you can take action now: Sign up…
Dear Friends of Passive House California, If you missed any of our live events, you can always catch up on our recorded content at your convenience. Our videos, community meetings, and other valuable recordings are available on YouTube, Vimeo, and in the PHCA resources section. These platforms provide a wealth of information on Passive House design, construction, and community engagement, allowing you to stay informed and connected. We encourage you…
Check out the updated Passive House building certification data: Over 4 million square meters worldwide! There are more and more projects focusing on highly energy-efficient construction and renovation. The trend is growing, with an increasing number of professionals in the construction industry seeking certification for the quality of their buildings. In recent years, the Passive House standard has gained significant popularity. As of January 2025, over 47,400 units have been…
(SACRAMENTO, CA) – Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego) introduced AB 368, a bill directing the California Energy Commission (CEC) to evaluate the adoption of certified Passive House (PH) energy efficiency standards as an alternative compliance pathway under Title 24 building regulations. With California facing intensifying wildfires, droughts, and rising sea levels, AB 368 aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by promoting energy-efficient construction. Buildings account for 31% of total GHG…
Call for Submissions Deadline is Feb 14th 2025 ! SUBMIT ABSTRACT SUBMIT PRODUCT AWARD SUBMIT CIVIC LEADERSHIP AWARD For the first time we’re bringing California’s leading green building conference to San Francisco, where green building pros, sustainability rockstars, and change-makers from across the state will come together under one roof. Expect an electrifying day filled with fresh ideas, game-changing insights, and endless opportunities to connect with industry leaders. Whether you’re just…
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