European buildings would consume 30% less energy if glazed with high-performance glass. Thermal insulated glass is already in Guardian’s range, and has already been installed in modern, energy-saving buildings.
The reduction of energy use is one of the key goals defined by the European Union. Accomplishing this goal by reducing energy through buildings, plays a huge role. The subject of energy-wasting in construction gets bought up in many conversations. In this context, the most popular are renewables and heat insulation materials. Though Facade glazing has much potential. The research shows that the use of high-performance glass can help to achieve the goal in a short period of time.
Two Ways for Europe
TNO carried out the research for The Glass for Europe report ”Glazing Potential Energy Savings & CO2 Emission Reduction” . The report presents the analysis of two hypothetical scenarios. These situations assume that by 2030 or 2050, buildings in the EU will have the recommended type of glazing installed. In the first case, they would consume 29% less energy yearly. Which would translate into the reduction of CO2 emissions by 28%. In the second case, the potential energy saving would be at the level of 37%. Which shows a similar reduction of CO2 emissions.
But, estimations for The United Kingdom are even more optimistic. Using the right type of glass in 2030 could reduce the amount of energy used by buildings by 32%. In 2050, it could be as much as 42%. In the first 10 years, half of possible savings that has been forecast for 2030 could hit target. That is if we used selective glass in new buildings. As well as doubled the amount of replacing old glazing with high performance glass. This means consuming energy at a European level would be 200 million tonnes less. On top of producing 240 million tonnes less CO2.
Buildings of Tomorrow Built Today
The data shows that energy-efficient window treatments can help reduce heating and cooling. An important parameter of a building’s thermal insulation is its Uw value. As well as the ability to send solar radiation effectively.
Guardian Glass has a wide range of glazing that meets these requirements. Glass products from the Guardian SunGuard® SuperNeutral and Guardian SunGuard® eXtra Selective ranges provide high light transmittance, while also controlling solar radiation transmission. This helps to create well-lit spaces and to prevent overheating during summer months. The buildings might be protected from the negative effects of heat by thermal insulation coefficient Uw = 0.5 W/(m2K) (in triple glazing). These properties make these products a common choice for modern and energy efficient buildings.
These products are in the front of the “Cheesegrater” building. The London building is BREEAM Excellent certified. 75,000 square metres has façade, and features a curtain wall that is double glazed. This allows for a high solar protection on neutral-looking glass. Using two of Guardian’s products, SunGuard® SN 51/28 and SunGuard® SN 62/34, keeps the building and its occupants cool thanks to their low g-value.
The Victoria Gate in Leeds has a diagrid-patterned façade. Adding Guardian SunGuard® SuperNeutral (SN 70/35) to the façade gave a unique sense of order and rhythm. The blue colour of the glass works well with the concrete tones. While letting natural light flood the arcade space.
To request a sample of the selective glass products of Guardian Glass, please visit guardianglass.com
