PHCA Community Meeting | “ICS” Innovations and Concrete Solutions- Lower Embodied Carbon Concrete

By Passive House California , May 30, 2025 - Community Meeting

National Ready Mixed Concrete Company’s Jim Little shares insight into the evolving world of low-carbon concrete. Hear the latest material dynamics and specifications strategies that support sustainable design without compromising performance. We’ll explore: Effective engagement in the Design/Bid/Build process for low-carbon results Current limitations and considerations in implementation, and Cutting-edge innovations in cement and concrete technologies. Low-carbon solutions are being applied on job sites today. Come hear real-world case studies…

AB 368 made it thorough Appropriations

By Passive House California , May 23, 2025 - News

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…

2025 California Green Building Conference & PHCA

By Passive House California , May 23, 2025 - News

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"…

OPEN HOUSE | Experience a Certified Passive House (SB9) & EnerPHit Remodel in Progress in Los Angeles

By Passive House California , April 30, 2025 - News, Passive House Open Days

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…

PHCA Community Meeting | Liquid Applied Intelligent Membranes: The Latest for High Performing Buildings

By Passive House California , April 25, 2025 - Community Meeting, News

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…

Non Combustible Stone Wool (Mineral Wool) Solutions for Thermal, Fire, Sustainability and Sound Control

By Passive House California , April 22, 2025 - Community Meeting, Webinar

The net energy savings realized in a properly insulated building are well understood. However, as design professionals strive to maximize thermal resistance, yet reduce mass in the wall assembly, insulation is increasingly being positioned in both the stud wall and the exterior side of the building envelope. This split insulation concept has introduced a number of design issues and concerns; particularly as relates to fire resistance, moisture management, and wall…

The Dangers of Smoke in Your Home: Why the Flames aren’t the only Threat of a Wildfire

By Passive House California , April 1, 2025 - News

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

Friends of Passive House We Need Your Help ! A groundbreaking bill, AB 368

By Passive House California , March 11, 2025 - Decarbonization, News

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…

New Single-Family Residence in Los Angeles Achieves Official Passive House Institute Certification!

By Passive House California , March 10, 2025 - Member News

Congratulations to the team for successfully completing certification! - Passive House Classic | One of the first Passive House rental units in California  This SB-9 project embraces California's forward-thinking regulations to combat the housing shortage in Los Angeles by introducing additional residential units. Designed to meet the rigorous International Passive House Standard, it ensures superior energy efficiency, exceptional comfort, and outstanding indoor air quality. The International Passive House Standard represents…

“Fire Resilient Envelope & HVAC Design” | PHCA Community Meeting

By Passive House California , March 1, 2025 - Community Meeting

Description As wildfires become increasingly frequent and devastating in California, building resilience is paramount. This presentation delves into critical aspects of fire-resilient envelope and HVAC design. We'll explore how achieving superior airtightness through meticulous envelope detailing, robust exterior walls with insulation and fire-resistant cladding, ember-resistant unvented crawlspaces and foam-free, unvented roof strategies significantly enhance a home's ability to withstand wildfire threats. Finally, we'll address considerations for HVAC-related openings, outlining strategies to minimize…

Passive House California | Watch us on YouTube & PHCA Resources Section

By Passive House California , March 1, 2025 - News, Passive House 101, Press Release

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…