Behind every Passive House is a model.
Not just a concept —
but a detailed calculation of how the building will actually perform.
That model is created using PHPP.
And while most homeowners never see it,
it’s one of the most important parts of the process.
PHPP stands for Passive House Planning Package.
It is a design and verification tool used to model the performance of a building before it is built.
Developed by the Passive House Institute,
PHPP is used worldwide to design and certify Passive House projects.
PHPP calculates how a building will behave in real conditions.
It takes into account:
From this, it predicts:
👉 long before construction begins
Without PHPP, Passive House would be a concept.
With PHPP, it becomes predictable.
It allows the design team to:
Instead of guessing how a building will perform,
PHPP makes it measurable.
No.
Both use modelling, but they serve different purposes.
NatHERS is used to assign a star rating based on predicted performance.
PHPP is used to design and refine the building
to meet strict performance targets.
👉 It’s not just an assessment tool —
it’s part of the design process itself.
Not in detail.
PHPP is a technical tool used by designers and consultants.
What matters for homeowners is what it delivers:
PHPP sits behind the scenes,
ensuring those outcomes are achieved.
PHPP is used from the early design stages.
The earlier it is introduced,
the more effective it becomes.
It continues through:
Trying to apply it later in the process
limits its effectiveness — and can increase costs.
PHPP is what turns Passive House from an idea
into a measurable, reliable outcome.
It doesn’t replace design —
it supports it.
And it ensures that what is designed
is what actually gets built.
👉 Learn how Passive House works in Australia