Certified Passive House Designer/Consultant (CPHD) Pacific Summer Hybrid Cohort
2025-07-01
Apply Here
3C-REN is pleased to offer The Passive House Network’s (PHN’s) Certified Passive House Designer/ Consultant hybrid cohort. This training is available at no cost to residents and those who work in the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. The CPHD course is the premier Passive House professional training for architects, engineers, and building professionals and is supported by the 31-year history of global technical leadership of the Passive House Institute.
The upcoming online Summer Cohort starts on July 1st with an exam scheduled on September 18th. For more information on the training, check out the training brochure and schedule or visit Pacific Summer 2025 Cohort – The Passive House Network. The hybrid cohort schedule is approximately 8 weeks from kick-off to completion, followed by 4 to 5 weeks of exam prep.
Complete the interest form ASAP to confirm your eligibility for the cohort. Space is limited. Registration is first come, first serve with limited equal spaces per Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties. Confirmed registrants will be sent a link and an enrollment code to register with PHN’s training portal.
By registering for the Pacific Cohort, you commit 3C-REN to pay the training and exam fee on your behalf, valued at $2,295.
Course Overview
The course is structured to be flexible in timing yet get you to the exam date prepared for the test and ready for designing and building.
The CPHD/C training is a specially designed for professionals in the U.S. construction industry. It features Passive House calculations in Imperial units, and has a variety of case studies, with both U.S. and international examples. Regardless, of what type of projects you design – residential, commercial, institutional projects, or with new and retrofit construction – the Passive House standard can be applied.
Eligibility
This training is available at no cost to residents and those who work in the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo ONLY.
Who Should Attend
The Certified Passive House Designer / Consultant course was developed for a wide range of student profiles include architects, MEP and structural engineers, façade, energy and sustainability consultants, contractors, developers, policymakers, regulators, and more.

Why Attend this Course

Gain a strong foundation in Passive House principles, and their application, that can influence all your building projects, including single-family, multi-family, mixed-use, commercial, and industrial.
Learn Passive House standards and calculations using Imperial units rather than metric.
Develop the skills needed to calculate for high-performance buildings.
Explore case studies of passive house buildings from a variety of projects and learn best practices and design tips for different conditions.
Learn the core requirements for all certified Passive House designers and consultants so that you can take the certification exam.
Once you pass the certification exam, you’ll possess an internationally regarded professional credential demonstrating leadership in high-performance, low-energy building design.

This training is accredited by the AIA for up to 59 LU/HSWs (CPHD + PHPP).

Unitary versus Split Heat Pump Water Heating Systems
2025-07-14 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
Register
Event Description
This course introduces the key differences between unitary and split heat pump water heater systems, with a focus on what they are, what they do, and how they can be used in new or retrofit building applications. Participants will gain a practical understanding of the advantages, challenges, and considerations for selecting the right system in residential and light commercial projects. The session will also cover installation factors, energy efficiency impacts, and maintenance requirements, helping professionals make informed decisions when specifying or recommending heat pump water heating solutions.
Learning Objectives

Describe the fundamental differences between unitary and split heat pump water heater systems.
Identify the advantages and limitations of unitary and split systems in terms of performance, installation requirements, and maintenance.
Evaluate the impact of system type on energy efficiency, climate zone suitability, and customer needs.
Apply best practices for selecting the appropriate system type for specific project scenarios, considering factors such as space constraints, noise levels, and refrigerant management.

Learning Units
1.5 AIA HSW LUs pending for this course
Instructor
Eric Fenno, Small Planet Supply
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Enclosure in Detail
2025-07-16 09:00 - 11:30
Register
Event Description
Passive House is an enclosure-ﬁrst approach that empowers architectural design to drive comfort, resilience, health, and efﬁciency outcomes. The Passive House enclosure is fundamental to overall building performance optimization. We’ll look at the elements of high-performance enclosure design and construction, the order of priorities, the strategies, systems, components, and details required. From cold to hot and humid climates, and across different construction types and building scales, we’ll look at how to deliver predictable results.
Learning Objectives

Outline the priorities of enclosure performance.
Describe major principles in enclosure design and optimization.
Outline the systems, components, details, and strategies for successful Passive House enclosures.
Describe strategies and steps to ensure the ﬁnal built enclosure is successful.

Learning Units
2.0 AIA LUs approved for this course
Instructor
Ken Levenson, Passive House Network
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Regenerative Design in Practice
2025-07-17 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
California’s carbon reduction goals reach beyond energy performance to include equity, natural solutions for carbon sequestration, and conservation of resources. Using the Living Building Challenge and local examples, we’ll explore the exciting potential for regenerative design.
Learning Objectives

Be able to differentiate regenerative vs. sustainable, in standards and certifications
Understand net positive energy, water and materials through the Living Building Challenge framework
Build awareness of Equity in design and construction practices
Identify strategies for natural sequestration and biophilic design elements

Learning Units

1 AIA LUs approved for this course
1 hour of ZNCD Continuing Education units for CAB

Instructors
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Multifamily: Energy Code Implementation Series, with 2025 Code Updates
2025-07-23 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
As the 2022 energy code wraps up its final year, and the 2025 code emerges, we see the trends of building electrification, healthier indoor air quality and improved resiliency continue to permeate the code’s evolution. This series focuses on current best practices for implementation of energy strategies, as well as what’s around the corner with the new code that will take effect Jan. 1, 2026. With particular focus on the Central Coast region, we’ll discuss on what to include in construction documents to streamline the permitting process and tips for construction to ease signoffs and occupancy for each building type.

Energy Code Implementation: Non-Residential
Energy Code Implementation: Single Family New Construction
Energy Code Implementation: Single Family Additions and Alterations (this course!)
Energy Code Implementation: ADUs
Energy Code Implementation: Multi-Family (this course!)

Learning Objectives

Understand the current and upcoming metrics and standards used in the energy code for evaluating energy performance and indoor air quality, and how choices for electric or gas equipment may impact compliance with those standards.
Within each building type, review key mandatory measures related to energy performance, ventilation, refrigerants and insulation and review potential challenges for integration into design and construction.
Review the prescriptive “recipe card” approach versus a building performance approach, and discuss when to use each strategy to best incorporate energy efficiency and healthy interior environments into the specific project design.
Recognize where barriers or stumbling blocks may occur within permitting and construction and tips for documentation to smooth out the process, ultimately increasing the energy efficiency, health and safety of our buildings.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA HSW LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting

What Energy Consultants Need to Know About QII
2025-07-29 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
This course will cover what Energy Consultants need to know about Quality Insulation Installation (QII) to best help their clients meet the Title 24 Energy Code. QII is much more than just doing a good job installing insulation. It requires pre-planning and a lot of coordination between multiple trades. This class will discuss the important things to look for and how to use the compliance documents (CF2R forms) as invaluable checklists.
Learning Objectives

Understand the requirements of QII
Understand who is involved in making QII pass
Understand the importance of coordination and logistics with QII
Understand where QII is most likely to fail and how to avoid it.

Learning Units
1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course
Instructors
Russ King, Coded Energy
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

More Than One Brand In The Hand: Application Specific HPWH Design
2025-07-31 08:00 - 09:30
Register
Event Description
As California accelerates its push toward electrification, heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) are playing a critical role in driving efficient and clean water heating solutions. However, not all HPWHs are created equal—and not every brand is suited for every home.
This webinar equips participants with the knowledge to make smart, scenario-specific choices when selecting HPWHs. We’ll begin with a brief overview of why HPWH deployment is a state priority, then explore the key factors that differentiate products—such as noise levels, ducting requirements, physical location constraints, electrical panel capacity, and more.
The session concludes with an exercise exploring real-world installation scenarios—including garages, basements, indoor closets, outdoor closets, outdoor tankless replacements, and attics. Attendees will learn to identify which HPWH models are best suited to each condition, reinforcing the need for a multi-brand approach to successful system design.
Learning Objectives

Understand California’s policy drivers for HPWH adoption.
Identify key features that distinguish HPWH products across manufacturers.
Apply scenario-based reasoning to select optimal HPWHs for various home installation conditions.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC LUs approved for this course

Instructor
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Emu Passive Info Session
2025-08-07 15:00 - 16:00
Join Now
Are you working on a project and are wondering if Passive House is the right fit to meet your goals and your budget?
Are you looking for training, and need to figure out what is the right way forward for you?
Have you found so much information online that you just don’t know where to start, and who to listen to?
Join Emu’s Free Info Session and learn how Emu can help you meet your goals! No registration needed! Save this in your calendar and join in on this Zoom link.

Can’t get enough Passive House?
Apply for the 3C-REN & Emu Passive Design/Build Boot Camp this Fall in Ventura!
More info and application form here.

Instructor
Enrico Bonilauri

Next Generation Passive Solar
2025-08-12 16:00 - 17:30 | CEC’s Environmental Hub, 1219 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101, United States
Register
Enjoy food, drinks, and great company at the third event in our High-Performance Happy Hour Series! Whether you’re a homeowner, architect, or simply curious about high-performance design, join us to dive into the next generation of passive solar design principles.
Event Description
We all learned the principles of passive solar design in school – south facing orientation, strategic windows, thermal mass, etc., but the old rules don’t apply in the same way. Modern buildings should still incorporate passive strategies, including daylight and ventilation, but they need a new spin on the implementation to account for improved insulation, prevalence of high-performance glazing, and efficient HVAC systems and lighting.
Learning Objectives

Review passive thermal design strategies including basic climate analysis and guidelines for orientation, fenestration and thermal mass.
Understand current science relating to the impacts of daylight and views on occupant health and learn best practices for right-sizing windows and skylights, managing glare and selecting appropriate visible light transmittance.
Learn strategies to develop an integrated system for ventilation, optimizing passive systems (operable windows and skylights, stack effect, cross ventilation) with mechanical systems
Review a case study to integrate passive thermal design with a high-performance envelope.

Learning Units

1 AIA HSW LUs approved for this course
1 hour of ZNCD Continuing Education units for CAB

Instructor
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting

This event is held in partnership with AIA Santa Barbara. Attendance is open to all.

Interested in attending more in-person events? Make sure to check out the last event in our High-Performance Happy Hour Series!

Renewable Energy, Energy Storage and Resiliency (10/28)

CALGreen Code – 2025 Update
2025-08-13 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
This course focuses on Title 24, Part 11, the California Green Building Standards, incorporating the 2025 code changes that take effect January 1, 2026. We’ll review background of the code, the logistics of implementation and the specific requirements for residential and non-residential construction.
Learning Objectives

Understand CALGreen compliance process for residential and nonresidential projects, highlighting changes in the 2025 code.
Become familiar with CALGreen mandatory measures and green building benefits of each
Understand Tier 1 and Tier 2 options.
Learn tools and best practices for submitting and reviewing compliance documentation

Learning Units

1.5 AIA HSW LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting

Intro to Passive House Trades
2025-08-14 09:00 - 11:30
Register
Event Description
PHN’s Introduction to Passive House Trades course will broadly cover the following topics: Passive House basics, review of typical construction types, windows and installation, air barriers and insulation, and new, innovative PH products. It is crucial when working on Passive House buildings to properly install components, understand how to correctly implement design details and assess and plan for the current and future performance of the building. This live online course is accompanied by mini video tutorials for various PH product installations, plus incorporates actual building of Passive House details relevant to the US construction industry.
Learning Objectives

Describe the five key principles of Passive House projects
Summarize typical materials and methods used for insulation and air barriers on Passive House projects
Explain challenging details seen on wood and steel framed construction projects and propose solutions on how these can be overcome
Describe the common approaches for air barrier application and insulation installation on residential and commercial projects
Explain systems that can be used to provide space conditioning and ventilation on Passive House projects
Describe how lighting selections and lighting controls impact electrical energy usage on a project
Summarize the difference between quality control vs. quality assurance, along with attributes of each concept
Describe the documentation requirements needed for passive house certification and identify how it overlaps with the overall quality assurance process.

Learning Units
2.0 AIA HSW LUs approved for this course
Instructor
Ken Levenson, Passive House Network
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

IRA Part 3: Pairing IRA funds with Real Estate Loans and Go Green Programs
2025-08-19 11:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
Inflation Reduction Act Part 3: Pairing IRA funds with Real Estate Loans and Go Green Programs
IRA funding is coming, bringing huge potential for energy-efficiency upgrades at an affordable cost. By understanding the programs coming, you can help clients maximize their savings – on both their installation costs and utility bills.
Learning Objectives

Conventional loan-stacking strategies for clients with IRA funds
HUD and FHA program opportunities for income-qualified clients to combine energy-efficiency improvements with IRA funds to lower home ownership costs
Statewide grants and loan opportunities to help clients finance energy-efficiency improvements in their home purchases

Instructor
Lauren Bell, Franklin Energy
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Best Practices for Hot Water Distribution
2025-08-20 16:00 - 17:30
Register
Event Description
Do you want higher performance at lower costs? Every decision that increases pipe length decreases efficiency and adds costs. Right-sizing pipes and water heaters is essential. Integrating air source heat pump water heaters into high performance homes can be challenging. This session will do a deep dive into the essentials. Bring the key questions you would like to have answered!
Learning Objectives

Understand energy code requirements and compliance credits applicable to hot water distribution systems.
Explain why time-to-tap and volume-until-hot are goals set during the schematic design process.
Discuss the benefits of architectural compactness.
Specify pressure independent flow regulators for faucets and showerheads.
Appreciate the decisions that need to be made to minimize pressure loss in the building’s water distribution system.
Understand the best ways to integrate air-source heat pump water heaters into a high-performance home.
Incorporate right-sizing into the plumbing design process via the IAPMO Water Demand Calculator.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC LUs approved for this course

Instructors
Nick Brown, Build Smart Group
Gary Klein, Gary Klein & Associates
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

CEA/AEA Exam: Central Coast
2025-08-21 | San Luis Obispo Government Center, 1055 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo, 93408, United States
Register
Certification as a Certified Energy Analyst (CEA) or Associate Energy Analyst (AEA) signifies that a consultant understands the California Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6) and understands broader energy efficiency issues, is committed to providing quality service to clients, and that he/she has made a commitment to conduct business in an ethical fashion. Because CEAs have also made a commitment to ongoing educational requirements, attending advanced industry training puts them on the cutting edge.
CEAs are individuals who have demonstrated their mastery of the Residential and/or Nonresidential California Energy Standards through the following steps.

Pass the appropriate two-part (Multiple Choice and ACM Modeling) CEA Exam for Residential and/or Nonresidential.
Have verified experience and/or education and other certifications related to Title 24 compliance work.
Participate in a Professional Practices Workshop (PPW), sponsored by CABEC.
Attend at least nine hours per year of continuing education training.

Since energy consultants are not regulated by the state, CABEC designed the CEA to be a statement of an energy consultant’s working knowledge and understanding of the California Energy Efficiency Standards. When an energy consultant is a Certified Energy Analyst it is a statement to a building department, builder, architect, or homeowner of the professional skills and knowledge of that energy consultant. This certification has become a highly regarded symbol of expertise within the industry and Title 24 compliance in California.

Ask the Experts: Enclosures
2025-08-26 12:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
This is an office-hours style open discussion about high-performance building enclosures with Home Performance Pro Judy Rachel. We’ll be talking insulation, windows, air sealing, blower door testing, and the gap between minimum energy code compliance and high-performance standards.
We’ll start with an overview of high-performance building enclosures, and then we’ll dive into problems contractors, builders, architects or energy consultants commonly run into on the job, and how to address them.
Bring your stories about unusual jobs or tough calls—this is a space to break down the head-scratchers and share strategies for navigating the gray areas where building science meets real-world complexity.

Instructor
Judy Rachel, Home Performance Pro
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

3C-REN Contractor Connection Hub at Standard Plumbing
2025-08-27 07:00 - 13:00 | Standard Plumbing Supply & Hardware, 3330 Saviers Rd, Oxnard, CA, 93033, United States
Register
Event Description
Join 3C-REN on August 27th at Standard Plumbing in Oxnard for an exciting opportunity to connect and grow! The 3C-REN team will be on-site to share workforce development opportunities; exclusive incentives tailored to contractors in the region and provide answers to Energy Code questions
Learning Objectives
Discover how you can enhance your skills and grow your business with the support of our programs.
Learn about air leakage and blower door testing with our installation and presentation!
Learn about exclusive incentives available to participating contractors.
Stop by and say hello! We’ll be thrilled to share more details and answer your questions.
Plus, don’t miss out on some fantastic free goodies waiting for you!

Retaining Profit – Minimizing Call Backs on Heat Pump Projects
2025-08-28 08:00 - 09:30
Register
Event Description
Heat pumps are inherently different than gas furnaces or gas water heaters. Contractors and other industry professionals must take time to educate customers, clients, and others on these differences to ensure optimal customer satisfaction. This webinar will outline best practices for system operation of ducted and ductless mini-splits, unitary heat pumps, and heat pump water heaters.
Learning Objectives

Explain one reason why heat pumps operate differently than gas furnaces
Name at least two points in the customer journey where education on heat pump operation are essential
Describe proper multi-split system operation in a way a typical customer can understand
Describe best practices for operating several types of heat pump systems

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC LUs approved for this course

Instructor
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Building The Future: High Performance Construction in California
2025-09-09 12:00 - 13:30
Register
Join Emu Passive for a panel discussion with experienced Passive House Builders, and learn how to lay out successful strategies for cost-effective, high performance projects.
We’ll have a chance to discuss priorities, challenges, and opportunities for different types of projects: commercial and multifamily, as well as single family, ADUs, and retrofits.

Can’t get enough Passive House?
Join us this fall in Ventura for an in-person Boot Camp led by Emu Passive.
More information and application form here.

Instructor
Enrico Bonilauri

Title 24 Energy Performance Modeling – A Peek Behind the Curtain
2025-09-10 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Take a look behind the scenes of how an energy performance model is developed using Energy Pro and California’s Building Energy Code Compliance (CBECC) software. We’ll review what components for assemblies, mechanical systems, lighting, HERS and other factors go into a model and what variables influence compliance. If you’re looking to improve your options for demonstrating energy efficiency, considering becoming an energy analyst, or just wondering what’s in the black box of a Title 24 report, this is the course for you.
Learning Objectives

Learn the logistics of energy modeling for code compliance including approved software, software costs, input information required and available outputs
Go through energy modeling examples to learn which variables are fixed and which can be adjusted or are ‘hidden’ deep in the software
Understand how an energy model can inform decisions that improve energy efficiency
Learn potential shortcomings of compliance modeling in accurately predicting energy performance, and explore opportunities for working around them

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting

Multi-Family Domestic Hot Water
2025-09-11 12:00 - 14:00
Register
Event Description
Moving from fossil-fuel boilers to other forms of domestic hot water heating can be challenging, but it’s definitely doable. This training offers experience and strategies for providing DHW in multifamily projects. As a result of this training, learners will be able to:
Learning Objectives

Identify the design considerations which should be included in a new or retrofit DHW system design
Demonstrate understanding of the differences in capacity design between a boiler based and heat pump DHW system
Utilize information from lessons learned in the field with new system designs to make confident decisions in design direction

Learning Units

1.5 AIA HSW LUs pending for this course

Instructors
Albert Rooks, Small Planet Supply
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Next Generation Passive Solar
2025-09-23 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
We all learned the principles of passive solar design in school – south facing orientation, strategic windows, thermal mass, etc., but the old rules don’t apply in the same way. Modern buildings should still incorporate passive strategies, including daylight and ventilation, but they need a new spin on the implementation to account for improved insulation, prevalence of high-performance glazing, and efficient HVAC systems and lighting.
Learning Objectives

Review passive thermal design strategies including basic climate analysis and guidelines for orientation, fenestration and thermal mass.
Understand current science relating to the impacts of daylight and views on occupant health and learn best practices for right-sizing windows and skylights, managing glare and selecting appropriate visible light transmittance.
Learn strategies to develop an integrated system for ventilation, optimizing passive systems (operable windows and skylights, stack effect, cross ventilation) with mechanical systems
Review a case study to integrate passive thermal design with a high-performance envelope.

Learning Units

1 AIA HSW LUs pending for this course

Instructor
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Passive Design/Build Boot Camp with Emu Passive - Hands On Training and Exam (FREE!)
2025-09-29 08:00 - 2025-10-03 12:00 | Museum of Ventura County, 100 E Main Street, Ventura, CA, 93001, United States
Apply Here

3C-REN is offering a hands-on Certified Passive House Tradesperson Training and Exam through industry leading provider Emu Passive FREE (normally a $2,490 value) to tradespeople who are residents of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura County.

Find more details about the Certified Passive House Tradesperson hands-on training and exam by visiting the Emu Passive Website.
This year we will be offering a 5-Day in-person “Focus” option, and a hybrid “Flex” option that allows you to complete the classroom portion in advance and only attend days 3-5. – Read more about the two formats
This free multi-day in-person training will be held at The Museum of Ventura County in Ventura, CA from Monday, September 29th to Friday, October 3rd.

General Training Agenda:

Two days of classroom learning
Two days of a hands-on Passive Pod workshop
Half-day exam

How to apply for the Certified Passive House Tradesperson Training and Exam:

Complete the application HERE. By completing this form, you are confirming your ability and commitment to attend the multi-day training in Ventura for the dates listed above.
You will receive an intro phone call from a 3C-REN staff member to determine eligibility.
If eligible, Emu will contact you to finalize your enrollment.

This year we are offering 16 AIA LUs for completion of this boot camp!

This is a first-come, first-serve opportunity. Preference will be given to residents in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties. Space is limited.
If you have any questions or need help, please email info@3C-REN.org.

Certified Passive House Designer/Consultant (CPHD) Pacific Fall Hybrid Cohort
2025-10-02
Apply Here
3C-REN is pleased to offer The Passive House Network’s (PHN’s) Certified Passive House Designer/ Consultant hybrid cohort. This training is available at no cost to residents and those who work in the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. The CPHD course is the premier Passive House professional training for architects, engineers, and building professionals and is supported by the 31-year history of global technical leadership of the Passive House Institute.
The upcoming online Fall Cohort starts on October 2nd with an exam scheduled on December 11th. For more information on the training, check out the training brochure and schedule or visit Pacific Fall 2025 Cohort – The Passive House Network. The hybrid cohort schedule is approximately 8 weeks from kick-off to completion, followed by 4 to 5 weeks of exam prep.
Complete the interest form ASAP to confirm your eligibility for the cohort. Space is limited. Registration is first come, first serve with limited equal spaces per Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties. Confirmed registrants will be sent a link and an enrollment code to register with PHN’s training portal.
By registering for the Pacific Cohort, you commit 3C-REN to pay the training and exam fee on your behalf, valued at $2,295.
Course Overview
The course is structured to be flexible in timing yet get you to the exam date prepared for the test and ready for designing and building.
The CPHD/C training is a specially designed for professionals in the U.S. construction industry. It features Passive House calculations in Imperial units, and has a variety of case studies, with both U.S. and international examples. Regardless, of what type of projects you design – residential, commercial, institutional projects, or with new and retrofit construction – the Passive House standard can be applied.
Eligibility
This training is available at no cost to residents and those who work in the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo ONLY.
Who Should Attend
The Certified Passive House Designer / Consultant course was developed for a wide range of student profiles include architects, MEP and structural engineers, façade, energy and sustainability consultants, contractors, developers, policymakers, regulators, and more.

Why Attend this Course

Gain a strong foundation in Passive House principles, and their application, that can influence all your building projects, including single-family, multi-family, mixed-use, commercial, and industrial.
Learn Passive House standards and calculations using Imperial units rather than metric.
Develop the skills needed to calculate for high-performance buildings.
Explore case studies of passive house buildings from a variety of projects and learn best practices and design tips for different conditions.
Learn the core requirements for all certified Passive House designers and consultants so that you can take the certification exam.
Once you pass the certification exam, you’ll possess an internationally regarded professional credential demonstrating leadership in high-performance, low-energy building design.

This training is accredited by the AIA for up to 59 LU/HSWs (CPHD + PHPP).

Earn While You Learn: Heat Pump Water Heater Installation
2025-10-07 08:00 - 17:00 | Lompoc; Location provided upon confirmation, Lompoc, California, United States
Interest Form
Event Description
3C-REN has partnered with SunWork Renewable Energy Projects to offer hands-on heat pump water heater (HPWH) installation training opportunities to licensed contractors and employees of licensed contractors.
Participants will earn $300 while they learn about the equipment, sizing, siting, and installation best practices as they work alongside a skilled installer.
We have 2 spots available for an installation scheduled on October 17th, in Lompoc.
Fill out the interest form to participate or to be notified when an installation is scheduled in your area!
Event Partner
SunWork Renewable Energy Projects

Solar PV: Technology and Valuation
2025-10-07 09:00 - 12:00
Register
Event Description
Class #1 in the 3-Course series for agents and appraisers.
Appraisers and Realtors will advance their credibility and competency to better serve their clients with solar-powered homes. Newly constructed homes have been required to have solar as of 2020 and existing home installations remain on an ongoing upward trend. How much value does solar add? What is the most essential number we need related to valuation? While saving money is the primary motive for homeowners to invest in solar, CA building codes and energy policies are key market drivers as goals prioritize decarbonization; all-electric buildings powered by solar. Attendees will be better equipped to represent solar assets accurately in sales, competently determine value, and be credible guides for buyers and sellers.
Learning Objectives

Answer essential questions regarding the valuation of a solar system
Identify components of solar systems
Be aware of variations in utility rates and their impact on value
Understand motives and market influencers of homeowner decisions
Determine the value of solar PV systems: 3 appraisal approaches
Accurately represent solar in listings including vital points to inform value
Stakeholder’s shared pool of knowledge to support fair valuations

Target Audience
Real Estate Appraisers, Agents, Lenders, Related Associates
Learning Level
Intermediate
*Course is designed for those familiar with valuation principles
Continuing Education Credits
3 hours continuing ed. BREA, DRE, BOE Approved
Instructor
Debra Little, Ajo
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Visit https://ajo.earth/classes/ for more information.

Energy Code Compliance: Using HERS/ECC Measures (Part 1)
2025-10-08 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
3rd-party verification through HERS/ECC measures is a great way to improve energy performance and, more to the point, meet the Title 24 Energy code. In this two-part course, we’ll cover what architects and builders need to know to successfully integrate HERS/ECC measures into residential design and construction. Part 1 will provide an overview of HERS/ECC verification, show how it fits into the building code and address envelope-related HERS/ECC measures
Learning Objectives

Learn the roles and communication points for integrating HERS/ECC measures into permit plans, Title 24 documents and construction schedules.
Identify the library of HERS/ECC measures and which are Mandatory/Prescriptive and which are optional for use in Performance compliance.
Understand the requirements for Quality Insulation Installation (QII) and tips for passing the first time.
Learn the process for checking Air Leakage and how to use the tools at key construction milestones.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA HSW LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Paul Dunn, Central Coast Energy Compliance

Psychology of The Electrification Sale: Part 1
2025-10-09 16:00 - 17:30
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Event Description
Get ready to sell! In this 2-part webinar series, Electrify My Home will equip salespeople, service technicians, business owners, CSRs, and anyone selling home services projects with the mindset, tools, and techniques to confidently convert more customers to high-performance heat pumps and other electrification services.
Part 1 introduces the essential mindset and skills required to confidently sell high-performance heat pumps and other electrification solutions. Participants will learn to reflexively express the benefits of electrification, gain insights into their own and their customers’ personalities, and learn how to identify and qualify opportunities effectively. Through practical intake, research, and consultative selling techniques, attendees will leave with the tools to start more meaningful customer conversations and set the stage for long-term sales success.
Learning Objectives

Communicate the value of electrification by clearly articulating at least five key benefits that resonate with customers.
Identify personality types (using DISC principles) to adapt communication and sales strategies.
Apply needs-based, consultative selling by practicing active listening, asking permission, and educating customers to build trust.
Set the stage for future interactions by preparing customers for comprehensive assessments in the next phase.

Instructors
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Carbon Free Homes: Features, Benefits, Valuation
2025-10-14 09:00 - 12:00
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Event Description
Class #2 in the 3-Course series for agents and appraisers.
Do you know? CA policy goals no longer aim for net zero energy. Going forward, it’s all about emissions reductions. CA’s building codes and energy policy impact the way homes are built and powered. Homes of the future will be carbon-free! Efficient, all-electric, powered by clean energy. How will the new requirements impact their market value? What benefits do buyers care about? Carbon free homes are typically more healthy, safe, comfortable, durable, resilient, and cost less to own. Their high performance elevates occupant’s quality of life while delivering multiple societal benefits including cleaner air and water.
Attendees will gain comprehension of specific features typical to carbon-free new and existing homes. In valuation or guiding customers in buying and selling, the proficiency gained in this course will be a professional differentiator that strengthens their business.
Learning Objectives

Recognize building elements typical to carbon-free homes
Understand emissions-reducing efficiency
Describe benefits of CF homes including indoor air quality and energy savings
Comprehend why air tightness is even more important than insulation
Relate how families have realized health improvements such as asthma
Gain familiarity with current building codes and energy policy
Comprehend approaches to valuation of efficiency assets
Accurately represent carbon free homes in sales listings and appraisal reporting

Target Audience
Real Estate Appraisers, Agents, Lenders, Related Associates
Learning Level
Intermediate
*Course is designed for those familiar with valuation principles
Continuing Education Credits
3 hours continuing ed. BREA, DRE, BOE Approved
Instructor
Debra Little, Ajo
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Visit https://ajo.earth/classes/ for more information.

Psychology of The Electrification Sale: Part 2
2025-10-16 16:00 - 17:30
Register
Event Description
Get ready to sell! In this 2-part webinar series, Electrify My Home will equip salespeople, service technicians, business owners, CSRs, and anyone selling home services projects with the mindset, tools, and techniques to confidently convert more customers to high-performance heat pumps and other electrification services.
Part 2 builds upon the foundation of Part 1, focusing on connecting customer needs with tailored electrification solutions. Participants will learn how to conduct comprehensive assessments, set realistic expectations, and translate customer insights into actionable project plans. Through real-world examples and case studies, attendees will discover how to demonstrate expertise, foster customer confidence, and close more sales.
Learning Objectives

Conduct a comprehensive assessment to uncover current conditions, opportunities, and constraints.
Set realistic expectations that maintain trust while guiding customers toward achievable outcomes.
Explain long-term planning benefits and position themselves as whole-home solutions experts.
Integrate customer insights with technical data to design tailored electrification plans.

Instructors
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Clean Energy Homes: How Realtors earn stellar referrals while boosting profits
2025-10-21 09:00 - 13:00
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Event Description
Class #3 in the 3-Course series for agents
Realtors will learn new routes to increased profits as they guide clients to homes that are often superior on several levels: healthy, safe, comfortable, durable, resilient, of higher quality and with lower costs of ownership. They’ll build expertise to realize higher sales prices and commissions, faster marketing times, stronger credibility, and deeper personal fulfillment in their work. Those who’ve experienced living in a high-performance home treasure their homes! They testify to the quality of life and cost savings, and this proof grows progressively stronger over time! These clients are even more than a good referral, they’re advocates; one of the most valued assets any sales professional can have. Building on courses #1 & 2, attendees will increase comprehension of why and how CE homes are outstanding. There’s a strong business case for Realtors! As they guide their buyers and sellers to CE homes, they’re supporting their client’s best interests as well as the environment’s. Every house makes a difference!
Learning Objectives

Referral Gold: Earn the strongest-ever referrals from extraordinarily happy clients
Expand profit potential with the business opportunities of guiding clients to CE homes
Inform clients about benefits, features, and higher market values
Improve selling effectiveness with compelling sales strategies and tools
Increase visibility of assets and benefits in listings and tour materials
Apply the whole-human approach to resonating with customers

Target Audience
Real Estate Appraisers, Agents, Lenders, Related Associates
Learning Level
Intermediate
*Course is designed for those familiar with valuation principles
Continuing Education Credits
3 hours continuing ed. BREA, DRE, BOE Approved
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Visit https://ajo.earth/classes/ for more information.
