Building electrification is a key strategy for reaching our climate goals but how do we do it efficiently and with a grid sensitive approach? Multifamily affordable housing has the answers. One of Magnusson Architecture and Planning‘s latest, Highbridge—a NYSERDA Buildings of Excellence and Blue Ribbon for Design Excellence winner—is a prime example. This fully electric, passive house, which will provide 316 affordable and supportive apartments and 106 family shelter units has the size and scope to offer a variety of lessons and to dispel some of the misconceptions around this work.
Sara Bayer and Lara Caballero will join our January Project Showcase event to shed light on the imperative role of Passive House construction in achieving electrification goals and its profound impact on the grid. They will explain how the grid, typically sized for summer peaks, experiences transformative benefits through PH construction, effectively lowering both summer and winter peaks. This not only contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions but also ensures that conventional peak plants remain offline, minimizing the reliance on environmentally detrimental energy sources. Furthermore, Sara and Lara will delve into the architectural nuances of Passive House construction, emphasizing its ability to accommodate smaller mechanical units and its dynamic response to cooling and heating needs, particularly during shoulder seasons. They will also explore the intriguing comparison between Passive House cooling loads and minimum code cooling loads, considering the role of window air conditioners.
Further, the presentation will explore the intricate realm of designing efficient all-electric systems tailored for Passive House structures, encompassing considerations for space conditioning, ventilation, and hot water supply. Sara Bayer and Lara Caballero will share insights from the Highbridge Phius feasibility report, focusing on the meticulous layout that minimizes refrigerant lengths for the split system. They will explain the rationale behind opting for a split system and highlight its advantages in optimizing energy efficiency within the context of Passive House construction. Additionally, the speakers will unravel the innovative hot water design for Highbridge, demonstrating a cost-effective solution that harnesses waste heat from the housing portion of the building to generate hot water for the shelter component. This pioneering approach not only aligns with sustainability goals but also underscores the holistic and resourceful principles embedded in Passive House construction.
This free presentation will take place on Wednesday, January 17th at 9am PT / 12pm ET and will be followed by a lively Q+A session. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an industry leader and engage with the PHA community. See you there!
Passive House Accelerator
