World energy demand is continuing to soar as cities grow, technology advances and industries develop. Buildings make up about 30%-40% of the total – even more than industry or transport. This comes largely from heating, cooling and ventilation systems, with air conditioning especially energy-hungry.
Windows are a significant part of the problem. They allow heat to escape in winter and enter in summer, forcing temperature systems to consume more energy and drive up emissions. The challenge is to control this heat transfer without compromising on windows’ transparency and the amount of daylight they let in, both of which are essential for people’s wellbeing and productivity.
