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The cost of energy continues its upward trend. There is more and more pressure on architects to design energy efficient buildings and on builders to use highly energy efficient products, both residentially and commercially...while keeping costs down!
It is a challenge for the construction industry to understand and comply with the energy efficiency guidelines that have been written into the latest International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and other state and local energy codes. In some cases, when lower quality fenestration products are selected, these codes limit the area of windows and skylights that can be installed in any given building. |
The overall energy performance of the building "envelope", or the U-factors of its components, must meet strict minimal values in order for a construction permit to be granted.
One of the most straightforward ways to meet the energy codes as a builder or as an architect while still designing bright, airy buildings is to use ENERGY STAR® qualified products. Most VELUX products are ENERGY STAR® qualified in all 50 states, which means that they meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ENERGY STAR® fenestration products must have their U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient tested and certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) in order to quality.
By specifying or using ENERGY STAR® products, architects and builders can use more windows and skylights, bring more daylight inside and create more attractive buildings and more livable spaces while still meeting the local energy codes economically.
In warmer climates, there is great potential for lighting energy savings using emerging control technologies in combination with more effective daylighting products like VELUX skylights and SUN TUNNEL™ skylights.