Welcome to ecocentre buildings passive energy systems

Passive Energy Systems

Passive energy systems use available natural conditions such as sunlight and wind to warm or cool our living environment. The aspect of a building is critical to passive energy systems.

In the southern hemisphere the north face of the building should allow maximum sunlight in winter; whereas the western face should be screened from the hot afternoon sun in summer.

The EcoHouse is heated and cooled using passive solar design. Added thermal mass in a 50 mm layer of recycled concrete and double glazed windows on the northern side act to trap Winter heat. This is transferred through the building in an energy efficient heating/ventilation system.

Internal temperatures in the building are kept relatively stable by design features such as double-glazing, floor-to-ceiling drapes, weather strips and even carpets. Angled windows and a reverse brick veneer wall in the southern meeting room allow more solar energy to be harnessed, together with higher than regulated levels of insulation.

A pergola on the western side has been designed to shade the building in Summer with deciduous vines and help to keep the building cool. Cross-flow ventilation that makes use of prevailing winds assists in lowering temperatures.

Four (Solatube) skylights also help to passively light the building.

Passive systems are more effective when assisted by the building users. Closing drapes and doors at night to keep the heat out or in, markedly improves energy efficiency.