In the context of the growing focus on summer comfort introduced by the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the upcoming EU Heating and Cooling Strategy, Glass for Europe has published a new informative paper highlighting the contribution of advanced solar control glazing to passive cooling in buildings.
As Europe experiences rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves, building overheating is emerging as a major challenge for occupants, designers and policymakers. In its paper “The Role of Solar Control Glazing in Passive Cooling of Buildings”, Glass for Europe points out that while energy performance requirements have traditionally focused on winter insulation, excessive solar heat gains through glazing are now a key driver of summer discomfort.
Solar control glazing is designed to limit unwanted solar radiation while preserving high levels of daylight and visual comfort. When incorporated into building design from an early stage, it can effectively reduce indoor temperature peaks, lower cooling energy demand and decrease reliance on mechanical air-conditioning systems.
According to the publication, the use of solar control glazing brings multiple benefits, including improved thermal comfort for occupants, reduced carbon emissions, lower operational costs and the potential to downsize cooling installations.
The paper also addresses the policy dimension. An annex is dedicated to EPBD guidance on the energy calculation of transparent building elements, stressing the importance of correctly accounting for the solar factor of glazing in building performance assessments.
source: glassforeurope.com
