Program comment desired

Program comment desired

USA: The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) is encouraging window manufacturers to provide comments related to the Department of Energy's (DOE) Highly Insulating (R-5) Window and Low-e Storm Window Volume Purchase Program.

This program is intended to increase market demand for higher performing energy-efficient windows and includes low-e storm windows.

Windows with an R-5 value (or a U-factor of 0.2) represent the top tier of energy-efficient windows for cooling and heating dominated climates, as well as for mixed climates, available today. Most available Energy Star windows have an R-value of 3. If R-5 windows were substituted for R-3 value windows, the DOE estimates that homeowners would reap significant savings on their energy bills based upon a 40% reduction in average heat loss through these superior performing products.

The department also reports that low-e storm windows can reduce the average heat loss through the windows by 25% to 50%. Storm windows help save even more energy by providing an additional insulating barrier and reducing infiltration. The low-e coatings are effective because they mitigate the loss of heat in the winter and block its entry in the summer.

"Even though the energy benefits of R-5 windows are exponential, their current cost inhibits their widespread acceptance. With the DOE's goal of a price premium of $4/ft² compared to current typical Energy Star windows, more R-5 windows will be affordable in the marketplace, thus stimulating demand," said Rich Walker, AAMA president and CEO.

The DOE has partnered on this purchase program with the Alliance to Save Energy, Energetics, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.