Advanced glazing technology for low energy buildings in the UK

Abstract

Significant advances have been made in glazing technology in recent years which will impact enormously on the way building facades and control systems interact with solar radiant heat and daylight, and which will change building heat loss characteristics. This paper provides background to the current research activities in the field of advanced glazing technology for reduced energy consumption in buildings. A report predicting potential energy and environmental benefits from the uptake of advanced glazing in the UK is outlined, a world collaborative research programme is described and details are given of an organisation established in the UK to disseminate advanced glazing research and development results and applications guidance to the fenestration and building design professions. Technologies of relevance to the context of UK buildings are discussed.