Energy consumption in the building sector has been on the rise recently. In addition, buildings are considered a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. To ensure sustainability, building energy efficiency is crucial. Passive house standard is a voluntary standard for major energy saving potential in buildings. This potential can be generally realized through building envelope insulation and more efficient mechanical systems. However, energy efficiency and indoor air quality for occupants can not always be concurrently fulfilled. The current paper presents a comprehensive review of energy saving and indoor air quality studies in passive buildings under different climates. It highlights the main operating parameters that ensure the feasibility of occupant comfort in energy efficient passive buildings. It also highlights the challenges and the limitations that need to be considered. The paper aims to provide guidance for the optimum conditions to achieve comfortable passive buildings worldwide.
Heba Teamah (Thu,) studied this question.