The figures illustrate the basic principle of Passive House – energy efficiency can substitute energy needs. If the objective is to keep the coffee hot, there are two solutions – the continuous use of energy or energy efficiency. The same applies to buildings when you implementing Passive House principles it will dramatically reduce energy needs.

Super insulation combined with minimal air infiltration and elimination of thermal bridges make a Passive House extremely energy efficient - so much so that conventional heating systems are eliminated. With no more energy than a typical hair dryer would use, combined with internal gains, a Passive House becomes a clean, comfortable, low energy home without expensive technologies. When combined with a small amount of renewable energy the home will quickly become net zero, producing more energy than it uses annually.