In the energy efficiency and retrofit arena, we speak reverentially of “low-hanging fruit.” This typically refers to actions or measures that are easy to implement, pay immediate and long-term dividends, and provide rewards that are so apparent, it’s a no-brainer to make the decision.

When it comes to a building’s windows, doors, and skylights, an excellent example of low-hanging fruit is the specification and selection of National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)certified products. It’s a choice that should be front-of-mind for architects, designers, sustainability officers, CFOs, and building owners as they engage in new construction or retrofit projects. 

NFRC certification provides an assurance that the product you choose has been rated by the world’s foremost expert in window, door, and skylight performance. In fact, the NFRC label provides the only reliable way to determine the window energy properties and compare products.

The NFRC brand is universally recognized. For example, ENERGY STAR® relies on NFRC ratings to determine product eligibility, and the ratings are found on all ENERGY STAR-qualified window, door, and skylight products. They are also used to determine if the products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Further, all major standards and programs for window energy efficiency, such as building energy codes, tax credits, and utility incentives, establish criteria based on certified ratings by the NFRC. The NFRC’s role as the United States’ official organization for rating and labeling energy performance of fenestration products, was codified by Congress in the National Energy Policy Act 1992.

Why NFRC Certification and Ratings Matters to Designers and Building Managers

In the big picture, this is of immense importance in the pursuit of reducing energy consumption. The buildings sector accounts for about 76 percent of electricity use and 40 percent of all U. S. primary energy use and associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Studies suggest that advanced window technologies, as part of integrated building designs that incorporate dimmable lighting, have the potential to save as much as four quadrillion BTUs of energy annually. That translates to over $50 billion a year in savings for building owners.

The need for reliable and readily accessible data relating to sustainability and energy efficiency in the built environment has never been more in demand, as evidenced in a recent report published by the American Institute of Architects, “The Architect’s Journey to Specification.”

“Although 80 percent of architects want to specify more sustainable materials, only one in three feels they are meeting that responsibility today. They’re looking for knowledge and information that will help them design for sustainability and performance while communicating the value to clients.”

Edward “Ed” Armstrong is consultant serving clients in the private, nonprofit, and public sectors with a full range of public relations, marketing, and analytical services. He has worked extensively throughout his career on a variety of energy and natural resource conservation issues. This includes senior level positions at the Energy Management Association, The Society of Chemical Manufacturers & Affiliates®, and Porter Novelli. Mr. Armstrong Serves on the Editorial Board of the Distributed Generation & Alternative Energy Journal and was elected to the Vestry of the Gaithersburg Ascension Church in January 2021, where he is active on environmental and social justice issues.