Southwall Technologies has announced that windows using the company's energy-efficient Heat Mirror insulating glass already meet and exceed the new US Department of Energy (DOE) Energy Star window performance standards proposed for 2013.
To achieve its charter of establishing a level of energy efficiency that will transform the market and address America's increasing need to reduce energy consumption, DOE is raising the performance standards required for windows to qualify for the coveted Energy Star designation.
The first phase has been proposed to become effective in late 2009; a second phase with more demanding performance requirements has been proposed to become effective in 2013.
Among Energy Star's objectives is increased market penetration of higher performance technologies, such as Heat Mirror insulating glass, that are configured with multiple air spaces to provide insulating performance beyond what is possible with low-e glass alone.
"As evidenced by Southwall's recently announced joint venture, Southwall Insulating Glass, we are committed to leading the window industry through the transition to more energy-efficient products," said Dennis Capovilla, President and CEO of Southwall.
"Window manufacturers are actively seeking solutions that will help them meet the newly proposed Energy Star standards, and is a superior, lightweight alternative to triple pane that already meets the proposed 2013 requirements."
The availability and increasing market acceptance of Heat Mirror insulating glass, and other innovative glass technologies, has enabled DOE to move forward with its recent revisions to the window performance standards of its Energy Star program. The proposed higher standards will reduce national energy usage, improve home values, and provide monthly savings to homeowners.
Heat Mirror insulating glass is available from over 50 window and insulating glass manufacturers worldwide.
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