EPBD implementation to unleash the energy savings potential of windows

The massive energy savings potential of high performing windows remains largely untapped in the European Union. If properly implemented, the 2018-amended Energy Performance of Buildings Directive could provide the right legislative framework to overcome the remaining barriers which still prevent savings from state-of-the-art windows to be realised.

In a common position paper, the building glass, façade and window industries represented by European Aluminium, EuroWindoor, ES-SO, FAECF and Glass for Europe propose to pursue 3 key objectives to maximise the contribution of windows to ensure a decarbonised building stock by 2050:

1. Increasing the replacement rate of windows as part of the long-term renovation strategy.
2. Using the “energy balance” approach to assess the energy performance of windows.
3. Recognising the benefits of daylight, natural ventilation and solar management.