The participants in Task 8 studied the design integration issues associated with using passive solar and energy conservation techniques in residential buildings. Emphasis was placed on performance data, design information and design tools.

Fourteen IEA SHC demonstration houses were designed, built and monitored and their performance analyzed to determine which features and designs work best in various climates.

Much effort was also devoted to evaluating, validating and upgrading both detailed computer simulation programs and simplified design tools. The simulation programs were then used to perform parametic sensitivity studies and the results used to generate national design guidelines for passive solar homes. These guidelines are part of a series of eight design information booklets providing information on how to design, construct and evaluate cost-effective, energy-efficient passive solar homes.