Despite somewhat sluggish consumer adoption, a recent report by Lux Research suggests that the global market for solar control window film is set to almost double in the next three years. What is currently a $479 million dollar industry is projected to reach $863 million by 2018.
The environmental revelations of the past twenty years or so have put a harsh spotlight on energy use, especially when it comes to buildings. Commercial and residential buildings in the U.S. are notorious for consuming more energy than any other sector of our economy (the others being transportation and industry), and for years they’ve been pumping out more carbon emissions than buildings in any other country besides China. Needless to say, there’s been a serious push for improved energy efficiency and green building design.
One of the biggest reasons buildings use so much energy has to do with controlling the indoor air temperature. Air conditioning uses a ton of electricity, and windows can allow considerable solar heat gain, putting added pressure on HVAC systems. But, green building designers and homeowners alike are learning that solar reflective, low-emissivity window film can be very helpful in regulating indoor temperatures and cutting back on energy use. Big problems, smart solutions.
Market Growth Gaining Speed
Aside from managing solar heat gain, light transmission and glare have also become focal points as the use of architectural glass has grown worldwide. While there are several competing technologies available, such as switchable and aerogel glazings, aftermarket solar control films offer a less expensive solution with a short-payback-period (2-5 years) that can easily serve the booming retrofit market.
According to Lux, the factors driving global adoption vary by geography. Even though many European countries are experiencing economic turmoil, near Net Zero Energy Building (nNZEB) mandates are keeping the demand for solar control films steady. On the other hand, the adoption of Passive House in the Asia-Pacific region has solar control film growing there at 20 percent annually. Splitting these growth extremes is the U.S. market driven by strong city- and state-level policy support.
While significant growth is expected in this industry, there is still much room for improvement. For this upward trend to continue, we must grab and hold the attention of decision-makers and market influencers. We must consider the perspectives of resistors, eliminate pain points in the adoption process, and build strong relationships with window manufacturers so that warranty issues can be solved. And, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to continue the development and use of building energy simulation technology.
If you’re interested in what solar control window film can do your home or commercial building, contact Pacific Window Tinting today. Call 503-736-9000 or click here to send us an email.