PHPP has been identified as a suitable building energy modelling tool for use to comply with the Building Code clause H1 using Verification Method H1/VM1 since the 5th edition (2022.) In the 5th edition of H1/VM1, PHPP version 9, 2015, was specifically referenced.
In the 6th edition of H1/VM1 (2025), the reference to PHPP has been removed and there is the following more general statement about modelling software:
2.2.3 Modelling software
2.2.3.1 If the application for which the software is to be used has been documented according to the ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140 procedure, then the method shall pass the ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140 test...
PHPP v9 was validated using ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 140 in 2019 and the report is available for reference. [PDF 2.9 MB]
PHPP v10 is also deemed validated as the Passivhaus Institut (PHI) has confirmed that “the algorithms for the calculation of the useful heating and cooling demand, as they become relevant in the framework of the ASHRAE 140 validation, have not been changed deliberately from version 9.6. For verification, PHI rechecked all test cases and found that the agreement has indeed not deteriorated.” [PHI letter, 3 June 2022]
Therefore, PHPP v9 and v10 are both valid for use to comply with the Building Code clause H1 using Verification Method H1/VM1 edition 6.
Jason Quinn has published guidance on how to use PHPP for H1/VM1 on his website that you may wish to refer to.
Want to purchase PHPP? You can buy it from our online shop here.
