Earlier this week, the White House announced new programs through the Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Government Service Agency that will invest federal money in projects that aim to make buildings affordable, resilient, and energy efficient. Included in the programs is the Initiative for Better Energy, Emissions, and Equity, the E3 Initiative, which includes efforts to promote the widespread use of highly efficient windows and window attachments that improve comfort and reduce building energy use.
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which establishes objective window, door, and skylight energy-performance ratings, has thrown its support behind the national campaign to modernize and upgrade homes and commercial buildings to make them more energy efficient.
As the official certification body for EPA’s ENERGY STAR® program for fenestration, NFRC-rated products ensure homeowners and building occupants that the window has been tested and rated to perform as specified. The nonprofit organization also operates the Efficient Windows Collaborative, which provides consumers with information and online resources so they can select the right windows for their homes through the Window Selection Tool. All windows in the Window Selection Tool are NFRC rated.
“Energy-efficient windows, doors, and skylights in homes and offices make buildings more comfortable for its inhabitants, save money on heating and cooling costs, and reduce carbon emissions for communities,” said NFRC CEO Deb Callahan. “For more than 30 years, NFRC has been rating energy performance and working in tandem with the fenestration industry to create innovative, more efficient products and see firsthand the market demand. Through this initiative, the Efficient Windows Collaborative and NFRC will showcase the essential role fenestration plays for buildings to become efficient, save energy, and reduce their environmental impact.”
