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Phius Market Penetration in the US: A Comparative Analysis with Typical Code-Built Houses

By Positive Energy staff


The adoption of Phius passive building standards in the United States, while demonstrating a robust upward trend, currently constitutes a small fraction of the overall construction market, which is predominantly characterized by buildings constructed to meet minimum code requirements. Phius certified buildings offer substantial advantages over typical code-built houses, most notably in their superior energy efficiency, which translates to significant reductions in operational energy consumption and associated costs. Furthermore, these high-performance buildings provide enhanced indoor air quality, increased durability, and a greater level of resilience against extreme weather events and power outages. The number of Phius certified projects and the total square footage of these projects have been steadily increasing across the US, reflecting a growing interest in and adoption of these advanced building principles. Moreover, the integration of Phius standards into the energy codes of several states and municipalities indicates a growing recognition of their value in achieving ambitious energy efficiency and sustainability goals. This report aims to provide a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of the current market penetration of Phius standards within the US construction sector, offering a comparative perspective against conventional code-compliant building practices and assessing the implications for the future of sustainable building in the nation.


Introduction to Phius Passive Building Standards

Phius, or Passive House Institute US, stands as the leading certification program for passive building design and construction in North America 1. Its primary mission is to drive the adoption of passive and net-zero energy buildings into the mainstream of the construction industry 4. Phius achieves this by offering rigorous certification programs for building projects, for products and components used in these buildings, and for the professionals who design and deliver them 4. The core concept of passive building, as championed by Phius, revolves around five fundamental principles that work synergistically to create highly energy-efficient, comfortable, and healthy structures 5. These principles include the use of continuous insulation throughout the entire building envelope to minimize thermal bridging, the creation of an extremely airtight building envelope to prevent uncontrolled air leakage, the employment of high-performance windows and doors that effectively manage solar heat gain, the implementation of balanced heat- and moisture-recovery ventilation to ensure excellent indoor air quality, and the resulting ability to utilize a minimal space conditioning system due to the significantly reduced heating and cooling demands 5.

Phius offers several distinct certification programs tailored to different needs and project goals. Phius CORE represents the organization's legacy certification, focusing on optimizing the balance between passive and active conservation strategies to achieve superior energy performance and high-quality construction 8. This program provides flexibility through both a performance-based compliance path suitable for all building types and a limited-scope prescriptive path designed for single-family homes and townhouses 8. Building upon the foundation of Phius CORE, Phius ZERO sets its sights on achieving net-zero source energy consumption on an annual basis 8. This ambitious standard mandates the use of renewable energy sources, either on-site or off-site, to offset the building's energy needs and explicitly prohibits the use of fossil fuels for combustion within the building 8. Recognizing the critical need to address the existing building stock, Phius REVIVE 2024 offers a pioneering framework for deep energy retrofits 8. This standard prioritizes not only significant decarbonization but also the enhancement of resilience in existing buildings, ensuring they can better withstand the impacts of climate change 8. A key differentiator of the Phius approach is its commitment to climate-specific standards 1. Phius recognizes that optimal energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness require design strategies that are carefully tailored to the unique climate conditions of different regions across North America 1. By taking into account factors such as local temperature extremes, humidity levels, solar radiation, and energy costs, Phius standards guide builders toward solutions that are both high-performing and economically sound 1.


The Landscape of US Residential and Commercial Building Codes

The regulatory framework governing building construction in the United States is characterized by a decentralized system where the primary authority for adopting and enforcing building codes rests with state and local jurisdictions 11. Unlike some other nations, the US does not have a single, comprehensive national building code that applies uniformly across all regions, with the notable exception of manufactured housing, which is subject to federal standards 11. Instead, most states and municipalities choose to adopt and adapt model building codes developed and maintained by organizations such as the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 11. These model codes provide a set of minimum standards for various aspects of building design, construction, alteration, materials, maintenance, and performance, with the overarching goal of protecting public health, safety, and general welfare 11.

In recent decades, energy efficiency has become an increasingly important consideration in building codes. Many jurisdictions have incorporated energy efficiency requirements into their local codes, often based on model energy codes such as the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) 14. The IECC sets minimum standards for the energy-efficient design of buildings, addressing aspects like insulation, building envelope tightness, heating and cooling system efficiency, and lighting 15. The typical energy performance of houses built to meet these minimum code requirements can be assessed using the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index 16. On this index, a "Reference Home," representing a standard house built to the specifications of a model energy code, receives a score of 100 16. Lower HERS scores indicate better energy performance, with very efficient homes often achieving scores of 60 or below 16. For comparison, homes that earn the ENERGY STAR certification, a widely recognized standard for energy efficiency, are required to be at least 15 percent more energy-efficient than homes built to the current code, and they typically achieve efficiencies that are 20 to 30 percent better than standard new homes 14. Some jurisdictions have adopted more stringent energy codes or offer incentives for building beyond the minimum requirements, leading to homes that can be up to 44 percent more energy-efficient than those built to older code versions 17.

The construction characteristics of houses built to code are defined by the minimum standards outlined in these regulations 12. Codes specify minimum levels of insulation for walls, roofs, and foundations, as well as requirements for window performance and ventilation 12. While some level of airtightness is often mandated, the requirements are typically less stringent than those of passive building standards like Phius 19. It is important to recognize that the primary focus of building codes is to ensure the fundamental safety, health, and structural durability of buildings 12. Energy efficiency is an important but often secondary consideration, aiming to set a baseline level of performance rather than pushing for ultra-low energy consumption 12. Consequently, a building that is described as being "up to code" meets the minimum legal standards for construction but may not necessarily represent a high-performance building in terms of energy efficiency or overall sustainability 18.


Quantifying Phius Market Penetration in the US

Assessing the current market penetration of Phius passive building standards in the US requires an examination of the available data on certified projects and a comparison with the overall construction activity in the country. While the precise figures may vary across different sources and reporting periods, the general trend indicates a growing, albeit still relatively small, presence of Phius certified buildings in the US construction landscape. As of various reporting dates, Phius has certified over 640 projects across the United States, encompassing more than 7.4 million square feet of building area 20. More recent data suggests that the total certified square footage has surpassed 11.2 million 3, with 416 projects certified in total as of 2023 21. The rate of certification has also been increasing, with 58 projects earning Phius certification in 2023 alone, compared to 39 in the previous year 22

Breaking down these figures further reveals the distribution across different building types. In the residential sector, Phius has certified over 3,300 individual housing units, with more than 7,000 units having achieved either full certification or pre-certification status 1. While one report from September 2023 indicated that only 224 single-family homes had been certified with Phius 26, other data suggests that single-family homes constitute a larger proportion of the overall Phius project portfolio, potentially around 60.8% 20. This discrepancy may be due to differences in reporting periods or the inclusion of pre-certified projects. The multifamily sector has also seen significant growth in Phius adoption, with over 175 multifamily projects certified as of 2023 27. In the commercial building sector, as of July 2024, there were 454 certified PHIUS buildings 28. It is important to note that the relationship between the total number of certified "projects" and "buildings" may vary depending on the source and the way data is categorized.

Phius certified projects can be found in 42 states and provinces across North America, demonstrating a broad geographical reach 1. Notably, several states and municipalities have formally recognized the value of Phius standards by incorporating them into their energy codes. These include Massachusetts, New York, Illinois, and Washington at the state level, as well as Boulder, Denver, and Chicago at the municipal level 20. This regulatory inclusion is a significant driver for increased adoption in these regions. The growth trend in Phius certifications has been substantial in recent years 1. In 2023, there was a remarkable 49% increase in the number of projects achieving final certification, and the total square footage of certified projects grew by over 52% compared to the previous year 21.

To understand the market penetration of Phius relative to typical construction, it is crucial to compare the number of certified projects with the overall volume of building permits issued in the US. In January 2025, the total number of building permits authorized for privately-owned housing units in the US was at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of approximately 1.473 million to 1.483 million 33. This figure includes around 993,000 to 996,000 single-family permits and approximately 355,000 to 427,000 permits for units in buildings with five or more units 34. While comprehensive national data on total commercial building permits for 2024 is less readily available in the provided snippets, localized data and the number of certified PHIUS commercial buildings (454 as of July 2024) suggest significant activity in this sector as well 28.

The sheer scale of overall building permit numbers in the millions annually, when compared to the hundreds of Phius certified projects, clearly indicates that Phius currently represents a very small fraction of the total US construction market. However, the consistent and substantial year-over-year growth in Phius certifications signifies an increasing interest and adoption of these high-performance building standards.

Table 1: Phius Certified Projects in the US: Key Statistics and Growth Trends Note: Data represents various reporting periods as specified by noted sources.


Phius Certified Buildings vs. Code-Built Houses: A Detailed Comparison

Phius certified buildings offer a compelling alternative to typical code-built houses across several critical performance metrics, most notably in energy efficiency. Studies and real-world data consistently demonstrate that Phius buildings consume significantly less energy for heating and cooling. Savings in the range of 40-60% are commonly reported 5, with some sources indicating even more substantial reductions, up to 75-95% compared to standard homes built to energy codes 42. The PHIUS+ 2015 standard, specifically designed for North American climates, claims an impressive 86% less energy for heating and 46% less for cooling when compared to a building compliant with the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) 43. Overall, Phius certified buildings are reported to perform up to 85% better than conventional buildings in terms of energy consumption 6. While specific HERS Index scores for Phius projects aren't consistently provided in the snippets, the magnitude of these energy savings strongly suggests that Phius buildings would achieve significantly lower scores than a code-built reference home (HERS 100) and likely fall well into the range considered very energy efficient (HERS below 60) 16.

The perception of higher upfront construction costs often associated with passive house construction is being increasingly challenged by data from Phius certified projects. Many reports indicate that Phius projects can be built with minimal to no additional upfront costs compared to code-compliant buildings 5. While some estimates do suggest a cost premium, such as 3-5% for single-family homes and 0-3% for multifamily projects over an ENERGY STAR baseline 6, or even a higher range of 7-15% in some cases 44, these figures can vary depending on factors like project size, location, design complexity, and the experience of the construction team. Notably, larger multifamily and commercial projects often benefit from economies of scale, which can effectively reduce or eliminate any initial cost difference 6.

Indoor environmental quality is a paramount concern in Phius certified buildings. Achieving certification requires superb indoor air quality, which is ensured through a combination of an extremely airtight building envelope and a balanced heat- and moisture-recovery ventilation system 5. This system continuously supplies fresh, filtered air while expelling stale air and recovering energy, leading to a comfortable and healthy indoor environment free from drafts and with very stable temperatures 6. The airtightness of Phius buildings also plays a crucial role in preventing moisture problems like condensation and mold growth, further contributing to improved indoor air quality 6. Moreover, Phius certification incorporates the U.S. EPA Indoor airPLUS protocol, adding an extra layer of assurance for comprehensive indoor air quality protection 1.

Durability and resilience are also key advantages of Phius certified buildings. The holistic design approach and the meticulous attention to detail in the construction of the building enclosure ensure long-term durability 1. The robust and highly insulated building envelope makes Phius buildings significantly more resilient in the face of natural disasters and extreme weather events, including wildfires and extreme heat or cold 5. Their ability to maintain comfortable and safe indoor temperatures for extended periods during power outages is a particularly valuable aspect of their resilience 5. Furthermore, the rigorous quality control processes inherent in the Phius certification process ensure a high level of safety and performance for both the building and its occupants 5.

Table 2: Comparison of Phius Certified Buildings and Typical Code-Built Houses


Factors Influencing Phius Market Adoption

The adoption of Phius passive building standards in the US is influenced by a variety of factors, both driving its growth and presenting potential barriers to wider market penetration. Several key drivers are contributing to the increasing interest in and implementation of Phius standards. The growing inclusion of Phius standards within state and local energy codes and their recognition as an alternative compliance pathway in regions like Massachusetts, New York, Washington, Denver, Boulder, and Chicago is a significant catalyst 20. This regulatory endorsement not only legitimizes passive building practices but also creates a more favorable environment for their adoption. There is an increasing awareness among building owners, occupants, and industry professionals regarding the importance of energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and healthy indoor environments 23. Phius certified buildings directly address these concerns by delivering superior performance in these areas. The escalating focus on decarbonization and the urgent need for climate-resilient buildings are also driving the adoption of high-performance standards like Phius, which offers a proven pathway to significant reductions in operational carbon emissions and enhanced resilience against extreme weather events 3.

The availability of comprehensive training and professional certification programs offered by Phius plays a crucial role in expanding the pool of qualified professionals who can design, build, and verify passive buildings 3. This growing expertise within the industry is essential for meeting the increasing demand for Phius certified projects. The potential for substantial long-term cost savings due to the significantly reduced energy consumption of Phius buildings is another compelling driver for their adoption, making them an increasingly attractive investment for building owners who prioritize lifecycle costs 5. The alignment of Phius certification with other recognized green building standards, such as DOE Zero Energy Ready Home, EPA Indoor airPLUS, and ENERGY STAR, can streamline the certification process and enhance the market appeal of Phius projects 1. Finally, the availability of financial incentives and the inclusion of Phius standards in Qualified Allocation Plans in some states can help to offset any perceived initial cost premiums and further encourage developers to pursue passive building 23.

Despite these positive drivers, several potential barriers may hinder the widespread adoption of Phius standards. One persistent challenge is the perception among some developers and builders that passive house construction entails significantly higher upfront costs 46. While data suggests that this is not always the case, this perception can create resistance. Overcoming this barrier requires clear communication and wider dissemination of accurate cost data from successful Phius projects. Another hurdle is the lack of familiarity with passive building principles and the specific requirements of Phius certification within the broader construction industry 19. Increased education and outreach efforts are needed to raise awareness and build capacity within the industry. In some regions of the US, the availability and cost of specialized materials and components required for passive house construction may also pose a challenge 46. Furthermore, the deeply ingrained building codes and traditional construction practices in the US can sometimes create inertia and slow the adoption of more advanced standards 55. Finally, the successful implementation of passive building techniques often requires adjustments to traditional construction workflows and may necessitate investment in training the existing workforce 56.

The increasing integration of Phius standards into building codes and incentive programs provides a powerful mechanism for driving market adoption. By formally recognizing and supporting passive building practices through regulatory frameworks, jurisdictions are signaling their commitment to high-performance construction and creating a more level playing field for developers and builders who choose to pursue these standards. This top-down approach can effectively overcome some of the initial resistance associated with unfamiliarity or perceived cost risks, leading to a more significant impact on the overall market penetration of Phius.

Conversely, the persistent perception of higher upfront costs, even when not consistently supported by data, remains a significant obstacle to wider adoption. Economic considerations are paramount in the construction industry, and if developers and builders are not convinced of the financial viability of Phius construction, they may be hesitant to embrace it. Addressing this barrier requires a concerted effort to provide clear, transparent, and compelling data that demonstrates the economic advantages of Phius, including reduced energy bills, lower maintenance costs, and potentially higher property values, thereby making it a more attractive and ultimately more popular choice.


Future Outlook

In conclusion, the market penetration of Phius passive building standards in the United States, while still representing a small segment of the overall construction market, is marked by significant and accelerating growth. This upward trend underscores the increasing recognition of the substantial benefits offered by Phius certified buildings, particularly in terms of energy efficiency, indoor air quality, durability, and resilience. As energy efficiency mandates become more stringent, concerns about climate change intensify, and the demand for healthier and more resilient buildings continues to rise, the importance of Phius standards will likely grow. The future potential for wider adoption is considerable, fueled by the increasing integration of Phius into building codes and incentive programs, the growing awareness among industry professionals and the public, and the compelling evidence of long-term cost savings and enhanced building performance. Phius is increasingly positioned as a key solution for achieving a zero-carbon built environment in the United States and has the potential to transition from a niche market to a more mainstream construction standard as its advantages become more widely understood and the remaining barriers to adoption are effectively addressed. The growing network of Phius certified professionals across the US is a critical factor in this positive outlook, providing the necessary expertise and capacity to support the continued expansion of passive building practices in the years to come.


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