Improving Energy Efficiency with Smart Glass

As the importance of energy efficiency becomes more apparent, the use of renewable energy sources and better insulation has sky rocketed. However, more innovative solutions to reduce energy usage in residential and commercial properties are being discovered every day. One such solution is switchable smart glass, which satisfies modern architectural trends while reducing energy use. Since windows are one of the biggest ways heat transfers from the outdoors, this has a huge impact on the heating and cooling needs of a property.

How does switchable smart glass improve energy efficiency?

Switchable smart glass works to improve energy efficiency by blocking out heat and light when necessary, avoiding the need to overly use heating, air conditioning or lighting. When the fully opaque privacy mode is chosen, the amount of heat entering the building is reduced by 40%. This keeps the operating temperature between 4 F to 140 F, depending on the outside heat. You can control the opacity settings and heat in a variety of ways, from wall switches to remotes. However, you can also use sensing devices which automatically change the state of the glass when needed, which is the most effective method of cutting down on energy usage. The potential cost savings that arise as a result of increased energy efficiency can surpass the initial switchable glass cost in as little as one year.

The BlackOut state also blocks over 99% of light transmittance and ultra violet rays, therefore allowing greater use of sunlight and less dependency on light bulbs. Instead of pulling curtains and blinds, which block all of the sun’s rays, you can instead adjust the settings to allow a satisfactory level of light through. Moreover, installing smart glass panes as doors, sky lights or windows means you never have to worry about the glass being a confidentiality risk, as you can adjust the privacy settings as needed.

Can switchable smart glass reduce the cost of energy bills?

Reducing energy usage doesn’t just help the environment – it can lead to huge savings on heating, lighting, ventilation and air conditioning costs. That’s why it’s important to factor in the long-term savings when you’re considering whether you want to install smart glass in a residential or commercial property. Did you know that the Empire State Building was fitted with smart glass as part of a major refurbishment in 2012? Within just one year, the installation of switchable glass saved them an impressive $2.4 million in energy bills.

To find out more about switchable smart glass, and how it can improve the energy efficiency of a property, visit our products page or contact our expert team. Smartglass Intl. are one of the leading switchable glass manufacturers across the globe for various commercial and residential properties and would be happy to answer any of your questions – browse our projects page to be inspired by the variety of possible applications of electrically switchable smart glass.