Das Haus Real-World Demonstration of High Energy Efficiency Technology Visits Houston to Continue North American Tour

Presented by the German American Chambers of Commerce, this pavilion is an integrated, multifaceted structure that demonstrates real-world technologies and solutions for meeting ultra-low energy building standards. It draws inspiration from the Technical University of Darmstadt’s 2007 and 2009 first-place entries in the Solar Decathlon, an international solar house competition presented by the US Department of Energy.

“Das Haus demonstrates high efficiency energy technologies that are ready to go to market,” said Nico Rudolph, German American Chamber of Commerce for the Southern US. “Our primary goal is to open a dialogue that will help local professionals create international partnerships. Das Haus is a rallying point for that discussion.”

Several special events and presentations will be part of the Das Haus pavilion, presented by thought leaders on sustainability, green building and new methods of integration for ultra-low energy buildings. The Grand Opening takes place on November 10^th at 5 p.m. in the lobby of the Houston Permitting Center at 1002 Washington Avenue. (Editor’s Note: The press preview is scheduled prior to the Grand Opening at 4:30 in the same location.)

The pavilion opens to the public on Tuesday, November 08^th at 10 a.m., at the Houston Permitting Center, located at 1002 Washington Avenue in Houston. The exhibition, including guided tours, will be open from 10 am – 6 p.m. on days of operation and admission is free.

“Germany has made significant strides in sustainable design and renewable energy,” said Rudolph. “More than 20 percent of Germany’s energy consumption derives from renewable resources, and there is a strong appetite for sustainable technology. We’re bringing to Houston a unique pavilion that demonstrates these technologies for meeting ultra-low energy building standards.”

Das Haus incorporates a multitude of sustainability technologies including:

• Thin film photovoltaic roof, facade and louvered panel systems
• Heat-recovery climate control and ventilation systems, Passive House Standard triple-pane windows
• Solar-powered LED lighting systems and high-efficiency appliances
• Vacuum insulated panel systems
• VRLA battery systems
• Advanced wall construction materials and methods

“Das Haus goes beyond a single building,” said Rudolph. “It’s the convergence of technology with integration and ideas with activation. We hope to use this pavilion as a rallying point for experts and thought leaders here in the U.S. to connect with their counterparts in Germany to ensure that the sustainable building practices in Das Haus are only the beginning.”

For more information on Das Haus and the most up-to-date schedule of events, visit www.DasHausTour.com. For more information on the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Southern US, visit www.gaccsouth.com. 

The German American Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest bilateral trade organizations worldwide.  With 2,500 member companies and office locations in Atlanta, Chicago and New York as well as branch offices in Houston, Philadelphia and San Francisco, the GACC offers experience in facilitating connections and services between German industry and its partners in the U.S.