The first comprehensive reference work on energy-independent Active Houses The Active House is a logical development of existing building standards. It draws renewable energy from the sun and wind in order to cover energy needs as completely as possible. The basic ideas of the Active House are described in detail in this standard work and serve as a planning guide for all parties involved in the construction of Active Houses. From the principles of sustainable and energy efficient construction to planning tools and technical details, the reader learns what constitutes active houses, how they developed, and the components required for its construction. Active House architecture is illustrated by fourteen built works in the areas of residential, non-residential, new construction, and renovation.