Abstract

Windows have traditionally been the weakest part of a building as far as energy loss is concerned. The introduction of low-emissivity coatings resulted in the production of multiple glazing units with very low U-values. However, the high performance of the glass area was spoiled by the fact that the units were installed in frames and casements having U-values that were twice as high. The window manufacturers had no incentive to develop windows with improved insulation performance, as the builders were concerned only with low purchase costs, and not with low life cycle costs. In 1991, as part of the Swedish Government? new five-year programme for more efficient use of energy, NUTEKl started a technology procurement programme for energy-efficient windows. At that time, normal U-values of windows in the Nordic countries were in the range 3,0-2,0 W/m* K. The two winners, announced in January 1992, were a Norwegian company and a Swedish company, whose designs for wooden-framed windows with external aluminium cladding achieved U-values better than 0,9 W/m* K2.

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Panels of

Panel 1: Policy and Programmes - Who can deliver DSM?

Panel 2: Programme Evaluation

Panel 4: Human Dimensions

Panel 3: Market Transformation: Innovation, Development and Dissemination

Panel 6: Transportation, Urban Planning and Land Use

Panel 5: Energy Policy for a Sustainable Environment