Dates
Day 1 & 2: Tuesday December 2 & Thursday December 4, 2025 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (PST) each day
Day 3 & 4: Tuesday December 9 & Thursday December 11, 2025 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (PST) each day
Course description
Buildings shape the lives, health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. Unfortunately, too many of the buildings across Canada often have significant problems: from drafty building envelopes, to mold and moisture problems, to inefficient HVAC systems. The Passive House standard has evolved over the years and now includes powerful tools, guidelines and certification pathways which can assist design and construction professionals seeking to retrofit existing buildings to be more comfortable, healthier and use less energy.
This in-depth seminar will introduce participants to the Passive House retrofit ‘EnerPHit’ standards and highlight some examples of successful Passive House retrofits from around the world. We will discuss the basic principles of Passive House design, including thermal comfort, energy efficiency, durability and health – as well as some of the common tools and techniques for achieving these goals on retrofits. We’ll also review how the EnerPHit standard fits into the larger efforts at decarbonization across Canada. Anyone looking to rehabilitate an existing building will benefit from this course, and in particular this course is a crucial first step for anyone looking to certify a building as a Passive House EnerPHit retrofit.
Learning Outcomes
- Participants will gain knowledge about the International Passive House Standards and how these certifications apply to Retrofits of existing buildings as well as the specific Certification pathways which have been developed for conversions of existing buildings.
- Understand the various Passive House strategies for improving durability, health, comfort and energy-efficiency and how they can be applied in retrofit scenarios
- Analyze the implications of modifications to the building envelope and review some common issues and pitfalls in high performance retrofits
- Understand how building retrofits fit into the larger nationwide efforts at climate-change adaptation and mitigation.
Until June 30, 2026, OAA members can register for any Passive House Canada course at a discounted PHC member price that represents a savings of more than $1,200 for the Pathway to Passive House Designer/Consultant Certification (120P) and additional courses. Email info@passivehousecanada.com to obtain a promotional code.