Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Through a deep energy retrofit (DER), we revitalized ten historic Boston duplexes - projecting an 80% reduction in energy consumption. We will go over the full history of this DER in detail to share what we learned and what we would do differently on future projects. We will cover the Phius design certification process and also share post-occupancy energy use data.
Continuing Education Units (CEUS) submitted 1 hour in*
• Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI)
• Building Performance Institute (BPI) NonWholeHouse
• Submitted for American Institute of Architects - AIA (HSW)**
• Certified Green Professional (NARI & CGP)
• GHI Certified GreenHome Professional (CGHP) Pillar(s): Energy, Health, Materials
• American Institute of Building Designers (AIBD)
• Building Science Institute (BSI) Verifier
• Passive House Consultant US (CPHC)
• Society of American Registered Architects (SARA)
**State Architect / Builder License may be applicable
Need CEUS?
Take the Quiz here:
greenhomeinstitute.thinkific.com/courses/upgrading-historic-homes-better-than-new-with-deep-energy-retrofits
Speaker
Ben Allee is a Project Manager at Onion Flats Architects with two decades of experience in architecture and design. Over the last six years, he has specialized in Deep Energy Retrofits (DERs), Net-Zero buildings, and Passive House multifamily projects ranging from six to 600 units.
Ben continues to champion high-performance design strategies, focusing on delivering cost-effective, low-carbon solutions for clients, and notably led the Hano Homes DER pilot project through its construction phase.
Lessons Learned
1. Understand that effective deep energy retrofits not only enhance energy efficiency but also significantly contribute to the overall health of residents by improving indoor air quality and reducing harmful pollutants.
2. Analyze safety hazards associated with the retrofitting process, particularly those arising from existing building conditions, to ensure the well-being of both workers and occupants during construction.
3. Introduce welfare considerations into the retrofitting process by prioritizing resident needs and comfort to foster a supportive living environment throughout the construction phase.
4. Articulate the importance of sustainability in building retrofits, as it not only reduces energy consumption but also promotes a healthier, safer, and more resilient community for future generations.
Through a deep energy retrofit (DER), we revitalized ten historic Boston duplexes - projecting an 80% reduction in energy consumption. We will go over the full history of this DER in detail to share what we learned and what we would do differently on future projects. We will cover the Phius design certification process and also share post-occupancy energy use data.
Continuing Education Units (CEUS) submitted 1 hour in*
• Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI)
• Building Performance Institute (BPI) NonWholeHouse
• Submitted for American Institute of Architects - AIA (HSW)**
• Certified Green Professional (NARI & CGP)
• GHI Certified GreenHome Professional (CGHP) Pillar(s): Energy, Health, Materials
• American Institute of Building Designers (AIBD)
• Building Science Institute (BSI) Verifier
• Passive House Consultant US (CPHC)
• Society of American Registered Architects (SARA)
**State Architect / Builder License may be applicable
Need CEUS?
Take the Quiz here:
greenhomeinstitute.thinkific.com/courses/upgrading-historic-homes-better-than-new-with-deep-energy-retrofits
Speaker
Ben Allee is a Project Manager at Onion Flats Architects with two decades of experience in architecture and design. Over the last six years, he has specialized in Deep Energy Retrofits (DERs), Net-Zero buildings, and Passive House multifamily projects ranging from six to 600 units.
Ben continues to champion high-performance design strategies, focusing on delivering cost-effective, low-carbon solutions for clients, and notably led the Hano Homes DER pilot project through its construction phase.
Lessons Learned
1. Understand that effective deep energy retrofits not only enhance energy efficiency but also significantly contribute to the overall health of residents by improving indoor air quality and reducing harmful pollutants.
2. Analyze safety hazards associated with the retrofitting process, particularly those arising from existing building conditions, to ensure the well-being of both workers and occupants during construction.
3. Introduce welfare considerations into the retrofitting process by prioritizing resident needs and comfort to foster a supportive living environment throughout the construction phase.
4. Articulate the importance of sustainability in building retrofits, as it not only reduces energy consumption but also promotes a healthier, safer, and more resilient community for future generations.
